LIVERPOOL could potentially still be crowned champions at Premier League holders Man City’s Etihad stadium after getting the green light from the council.
Next week’s clash between the top two on July 2 has been confirmed to take place at The Etihad instead of a neutral ground.
The Etihad will host Liverpool’s visit to Manchester City next weekCredit: Getty – Pool
Jurgen Klopp’s Reds, who thumped Crystal Palace 4-0 on Wednesday, could win the title tonight if Pep Guardiola’s side fail to win at Chelsea.
However, there is still the possibility that Liverpool can seal their first top-flight crown for 30 years at the home of their nearest rivals after Manchester City Council announced the clash can take place at the home of the Cityzens.
The match was one of five listed by the UK’s football policing lead to be held at a neutral venue, at the request of the local force.
But the decision to allow the game to go ahead at the Etihad has been made after a meeting of Manchester City Council’s safety advisory group today.
Jurgen Klopp and his side could secure the title at he home of their rivalsCredit: EPA
Councillor Luthfur Rahman, executive member for skills, culture and leisure for Manchester City Council, confirmed: “The Council’s Safety Advisory Group (SAG) for the Etihad Stadium met this morning (Thursday June 25) to review the upcoming fixture between Manchester City FC and Liverpool FC.
“Following the most recent round of Premier League fixtures which have all taken place behind closed doors the SAG has signalled it has no objections to the above fixture taking place at the Etihad Stadium as planned at 8.15pm, Thursday July 2.
“As with all other Premier League matches this fixture will take place behind closed doors, with no fans present.”
The initial fixtures listed for neutral venues also included the Merseyside derby, Manchester United’s game against Sheffield United, City’s home game against Newcastle on July 8 and Newcastle vs Liverpool on July 26.
The City vs Liverpool showdown was the only one which had not subsequently been confirmed to be played at the original home ground until today’s announcement.
And Liverpool boss Klopp will be delighted at the decision, saying earlier in the week: “I would prefer [that] it is in Manchester, otherwise it would be really difficult to organise.
“I don’t exactly know how that would be but, [because] it will not be in Liverpool, it means we have to go somewhere where we [both clubs] need a hotel probably.
“We don’t know how it would be organised. That is an issue but apart from that, we play where people send us to.”
Liverpool can seal the title with a draw against Guardiola’s side if City take all three points in West London later.
Jurgen Klopp post-match press conference after Liverpool beat Crystal Palace 4-0
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
