The Premier League title race has ceased to be solely about ability. Now it is primarily about the psychology of Manchester City and Liverpool.

One club is buzzing preparing for a Champions League semi-final, trying to feed off their winning momentum. The other is fighting against the prospect of a demoralising European setback having domestic repercussions.

Assessing the mood of the two clubs in midweek, you would not believe it is City that has already won one trophy this year, reached the final of another competition and remain favourites to win the Premier League.

Liverpool crave their first trophy of the Jurgen Klopp era yet this week feels particularly crucial for Pep Guardiola.

Last week, Liverpool beat Chelsea and there were triumphant scenes inside Anfield. Five years ago, they ended a fixture against the same opponents in exactly the same position - needing City to lose or draw one of their remaining few games – yet the picture was one of desolation.

The difference comes from the impetus of results and belief that by maintaining an extraordinary winning run the pressure will tell and the prize will come. City have been fighting against this idea of destiny being in Liverpool’s favour for months and are yet to offer any hint they will drop another point.