Oh yes. Oh yes they can. The break-up of the fab four has been traumatic at Anfield, but it is not too shabby when the three left behind are in the process of being superstars in their own right.

Roberto Firmino, Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mane demonstrated why the pain of losing the Brazilian is not comparable to when the club sell some of its other modern greats. They humbled City with their pace and skill.

There was enough in the first 10 minutes at Anfield to secure a year’s analysis for tactical scholars, Liverpool posing a problem for Pep Guardiola few – with the noble exception of Bristol City – have presented.

They pushed them so deep the City defenders were almost passing to each other in The Kop end.

Ederson found himself looking quizzically each time he had a goal kick as Mane, Firmino and Salah prepared to pounce. It ensured City were at their most vulnerable when in possession in their own territory.