Gabby Agbonlahor has now been sharing his thoughts on the crucial tie between Manchester City and Liverpool on Saturday.
Speaking on talkSPORT this morning, Agbonlahor was particularly focusing on the fitness of Erling Haaland, who missed the second of Norway’s two games with an ankle injury.
And whilst he admitted that Haaland’s fitness was a huge factor, Agbonlahor still tipped Man City to get a win regardless.
The pundit thought that the likes of Julian Alvarez and Jeremy Doku would still prove too much for Liverpool to handle.
Agbonlahor said: “Even without Haaland you have Alvarez, World Cup winner.
“You have Doku, probably the quickest striker in the Premier League. Foden, Grealish.
“I still think it will be a win for Man City.”
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And although City do go into the game as favourites, Liverpool are now getting used to their role as underdogs.
Jurgen Klopp’s side were barely mentioned in the title race this season, even a month into the campaign.
Fast forward to now, and Klopp’s team would be considered favourites for the title if they achieved an upset at the Etihad.
Gabby Agbonlahor still backs Man City to win without Erling Haaland against Liverpool
Whilst City don’t rely on Haaland under Pep Guardiola, he is obviously a huge factor in their success.
And given how improved Liverpool’s defence is this season under the stewardship of Virgil van Dijk, Agbonlahor may be slightly underestimating Klopp’s side.
Moreover, Liverpool have also looked particularly menacing in attack.
Perhaps some of the game will also hinge on the readiness of Luis Diaz and Darwin Nunez.
Both were away in South America over the break, making a Saturday lunch time kick off less than ideal.
However, it does bode well that Lionel Messi was complementing Liverpool’s Nunez over the break.
Erling Haaland’s fitness will be very important to the tie, but it’s clear that there will be a number of tight calls.
However, it’s certainly going to be interesting to watch Dominik Szoboszlai on such an occasion.
The midfielder has been absolutely flawless since his big money move, and looks capable of deciding the biggest of games.
So whilst Agbonhalor is confident that Man City will get the three points against Liverpool, there may be one or two on Merseyside feeling equally optimistic.