BBC pundit says £47m Man City player will be so ‘important’ v Liverpool
Michael Brown believes one Manchester City star will have a particularly crucial role to play against Liverpool.
Manchester City take on Liverpool on Sunday afternoon in an absolutely massive match in the Premier League title race.
It’s all on the line as Pep Guardiola’s side travel to Anfield, a historically difficult place for the Blues to go.
But if City can win they will go two points clear at the top of the table and have their destiny in their own hands.
A defeat will see Liverpool go four points above them, though, while a draw would open the door for Arsenal to sneak in and claim first place if they win on Saturday.
It’s a blockbuster clash and Michael Brown believes John Stones will be really important.
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John Stones.
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Former City player Brown told the BBC: “Defensively for City, how John Stones controls possession will be important and how he makes sure he is in the right positions not to be countered.
“Also, if De Bruyne plays to his potential then that could be the difference for Man City.
“Is it a title decider? If Liverpool win, they will know there is still work to do because Manchester City will continue to grind out results.
“If City win, I think it is a massive step towards the title.”
The importance of John Stones
Rodri is obviously crucial to City, as are the goals of Erling Haaland, the passes of Kevin De Bruyne and the new-found cutting edge of Phil Foden.
But Stones also has an integral role to play as his presence in the side is what makes City really tick.
The £47m man has perfected the inverted-defender role to an extent that no one else at City, and probably the game in general, can match.
Stones’ ability to be a great defender and midfielder at the same time practically gives City an extra player on the pitch and it’s how Guardiola has gotten the best out of Haaland.
Keeping the ball and creating chances will be crucial to beating Liverpool and City do that best when Stones is at his.
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