Dejan Lovren has warned Manchester City of Liverpool’s intent to push for the Premier League title next season after killing Pep Guardiola's Champions League dreams.

There have been few more satisfying weeks in Jurgen Klopp’s two-and-a-half reign at Anfield, a third consecutive win against a side of City’s class – and a manager as revered as Guardiola - securing a semi-final place.

Club owners Fenway Sports Group are reflecting on the most significant victory of their eight-year tenure, the steady evolution under Klopp leading the club back to elite status. Liverpool do not have City’s finances, but have long argued the smartness of an investment is as significant as its financial cost. That was never more apparent over the course of two legs.

Yet the work is far from done. Liverpool are striving for a sixth Champions League this season, but Premier League success is the ultimate ambition.

Lovren acknowledged the underlying frustration – reflected at all levels at Anfield – at how far behind Klopp’s side trail City domestically given how little separates them in head-to-head encounters.

“Definitely. The regret is definitely the first six or seven games of the season in the Premier League,” said Lovren.