Liverpool will take on Manchester City as the table leaders after having achieved a good run of form leading up to Christmas, but they will learn what it takes to become champions of England according to City midfielder Yaya Touré. The Barcelona midfielder was instrumental in helping the club in the first and only Premier league title till date. They failed to retain the title last time around, as Manchester United won it convincingly. This season, they are back fighting for the title after the appointment of Manuel Pellegrini.

Even though they are not exactly top of the table, City have shown throughout the season that they are extremely strong. The incredible depth in the squad also makes them formidable opponents. Liverpool are never expected to be a title challenge, but they are in this position courtesy of some incredible play from the likes of Daniel Sturridge and Luis Suarez. However, they will learn the real mark of champions in the midweek when City and Liverpool face each other at the Etihad stadium where City have been especially dominant this campaign.

They have a 100% record at home, which has been the base towards their title challenge. It has helped them overcome very poor form away from home.

“Liverpool are a top team but we have proved we can beat the best teams at our own stadium by playing great football and scoring goals. We are not fearful of ­opponents, we are playing in an attractive and an attacking way, and Liverpool will be aware of that. The football we are playing is amazing – and we are ready to show them that. Seriously, this season could be massive for us. We want to be a top club, and to do that we have to win trophies,” said Touré, whose team face Crystal Palace after this match.