SMS Message: Liverpool FC have only lost one game all season and that's what champions are made of and Man United will hand us the title! SWEET. from Alan, Walgrave
Liverpool FC have only lost one game all season and that's what champions are made of and Man United will hand us the title! SWEET.
Liverpool fans will be hoping for a huge favour from their old rivals Manchester United on Wednesday when they host the Reds' title rivals Manchester City.
Anything less than a victory for the defending Premier League champions will hand Liverpool the advantage in the title race. Will City slip up? Lawro says "no".
"I think Pep Guardiola's side will go to Old Trafford and win," he explained.
"Their second half against Spurs on Saturday was the worst I've seen them play all season but in many ways it was a positive performance from them because it showed they are capable of getting over the line to get the three points."
Lawro's prediction: 0-2. Ten Tonnes' prediction: City are obviously favourites, but I am going with Ole. 3-0.
Get Involved
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SMS Message: Yes Joshua Tyler, fair point you make (13:40), but it's not like we bottled the league, still heading for 97 points, which is an incredible haul in itself, the level of consistency by both City and Liverpool is quite incredible. from Paul, Luton
Yes Joshua Tyler, fair point you make (13:40), but it's not like we bottled the league, still heading for 97 points, which is an incredible haul in itself, the level of consistency by both City and Liverpool is quite incredible.
'Think about now, not the future' - Nuno
Wolves v Arsenal (Wed, 19:45 BST)
Wolves
Wolves have dropped to 10th in the Premier League and boss Nuno Espirito Santo has told his players to take their frustrations
out on Arsenal after being held to a 0-0 draw by Brighton on Saturday.
"Every game is a new challenge, it's a new opportunity to become better as a
team and as players," he said.
"That's what we tell the players, compete to the maximum of your ability and
just go for it. It's not about where we want to go, it's just a game.
"Tomorrow, think about tomorrow. Play the game tomorrow and don't think about
anything else."
The Belgian midfielder could
replace Morgan Gibbs-White while defender Ruben Vinagre may also come into the starting XI after impressing off the
bench on Saturday.
Getty ImagesCopyright: Getty Images
Who will finish in the top four?
#bbcfootball or text 81111 (UK only)
ParkTheBus: All to play for. Spurs plagued by injuries but easier fixtures. Arsenal struggling away from home (and at home). Chelsea couldn't cope with the Burnley bus. United in freefall & 'disrespectful'. Expect it to be Spurs & Chelsea - but only just!
'Tomorrow we need more' - Emery
Wolves v Arsenal (Wed, 19:45 BST)
Arsenal
Arsenal have a poor record away from home and three of their last four games are on the road.
Manager Unai Emery said: "We are speaking about being consistent and competitive. Sometimes we can be competitive but less brilliant than in our game plan and we won doing that. Sometimes you are competitive, play brilliantly and it also gives you the victory.
"The last two matches away, we won against Napoli and against Watford and we weren't brilliant. But we played competitively and it was enough for us to win.
"But we need to improve because maybe in the next match, it's not enough for us to win. We are continuing in our way of thinking to improve, with big competitiveness.
"Tomorrow we need more. We need to be competitive and we need some moments of quality. But above all, we need our capacity to keep moving ahead but being organised and being consistent."
'I'm not thinking about the future' - Emery
Wolves v Arsenal (Wed, 19:45 BST)
Arsenal
Arsenal manager Unai Emery was asked if he's decided which players are staying and going this summer.
"In my career I think it's best to think about the next matches for the best performance," he replied. "I live in the present and it's very important in each match to show, first, our performance and, secondly, to show my capacity.
"I'm not thinking in the future. You are creating your future with the present and you need to play each match by thinking about that, with big spirit to do all we can individually and collectively.
"I believe in the players, I believe in our way and I think we are now in this moment with possibilities."
PACopyright: PA
'It's in our hands' - Emery
Wolves v Arsenal (Wed, 19:45 BST)
Arsenal
If Arsenal can win the last four games then they will secure a top-four finish and Champions League qualification for next season.
Manager Unai Emery said: "We have it in our hands. At the beginning of the season, after winter, we struggled in the table. We were [in a lower] position than we are in now. On Sunday [3-2 defeat by Crystal Palace], we know some details we lost and they used these details to score. But our way is not changing.
"We are on a way at the end of the season with a big possibility to take our first target. [We need to] continue being proud of our season and knowing the key moments are now.
"Tomorrow is also a big moment and a big match for us, a big challenge because we are playing against a team who feel strong with their supporters. But it’s a good moment to try to do all we can, with intelligence. We need to be clear, we need to play with heart but above all being clear in our minds."
Xhaka being assessed, Sokratis back from ban
Wolves v Arsenal (Wed, 19:45 BST)
Arsenal
Now we have a fitness update from Arsenal, who are assessing Granit Xhaka (hip) before their trip to Molineux.
Sokratis Papastathopoulos returns following a two-match ban but Aaron Ramsey (hamstring) and Denis Suarez (groin) remain out.
Hector Bellerin and Rob Holding (both knee) are long-term absentees, although striker Danny Welbeck (ankle) has started on-field rehabilitation and ball work.
'OT not scary for City anymore' - Guardiola
Man Utd v Man City (Wed, 20:00BST)
Simon Stone
BBC Sport
Manchester City went from 1974 to 2008 without winning a game at Old Trafford.
They travel to United tomorrow having won on five of their last seven visits.
City manager Pep Guardiola does not feel such form reversal will have any impact on this meeting, but he accepts it means the Blues have no need to fear a trip across town.
"I don’t make theories about what happened in the past. Every game is completely different," he said.
"The fact is this club grew a lot in the last decade, so it is not scary to go there.
"Before that it was maybe more difficult. The players Manchester City have had in the last
decade made this game a little bit more equal."
'The Everton game is over' - Guardiola
Man Utd v Man City (Wed, 20:00 BST)
Manchester City
Pep Guardiola was asked if he was worried about Manchester United's response after losing 4-0 at Everton on Sunday.
The City boss said: "A little bit, yeah but even with a good result, their confidence would be higher.
"It is a derby and all the times
we play against United, the derbies are always special games and the players do
their best for the fans, for the club.
"I saw the game and I imagine what will happen
against us. The game against Everton is over."
PACopyright: PA
'I support Solskjaer' - Guardiola
Man Utd v Man City (Wed, 20:00 BST)
Manchester City
Pep Guardiola was asked about the pressure on Ole Gunnar Solskjaer at derby rivals Manchester United with the Red Devils having gone on a poor run of form since the former United striker was handed the manager's job permanently.
The City boss said: "He came back here after being former player. He knows everything. It is
an advantage.
"Everybody needs time," he added.
"In our world, our position, I am close to Solskjaer. I understand
perfectly his position. We feel alone and that is why I understand completely
his position.
"It happens to all the managers around the world. That is the
reality. I understand him perfectly. I support him."
But Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola said: "I expect the best United tomorrow, I am sure.
"They are bright.
Football players try to do their best and tomorrow is going to happen. We
prepare for their strong points and weak points."
ReutersCopyright: Reuters
Medical team to work with De Bruyne
Man Utd v Man City (Wed, 20:00 BST)
Simon Stone
BBC Sport
Pep Guardiola says he may have Kevin de Bruyne back before the end of the season but that Manchester City's medical staff will need to work with the Belgian midfielder during the summer to make sure he doesn't suffer from the same problems that have kept him on the sidelines so often this season.
"Yeah, unfortunately this season it has been one injury, then another and another. He had two or three muscular problems," Guardiola said.
"In England you don’t have time to make a preparation. You play every three days and that is not the best way.
"Now he has to pay attention to the little details, to see if he can play one or two more games this season and next season make a good pre-season so he can be safe, to be fit."
But City boss Pep Guardiola has just said: "Riyad will be with us for the next season here and the next one
and the next one. I don’t need to speak with him.
"He is a player for us. We are delighted with him and the way he plays.
He is happy, we are here. Everyone knows the competition [for places] we have here."
AFPCopyright: AFP
De Bruyne to miss derby
Man Utd v Man City (Wed, 20:00 BST)
Manchester City
Asked how long he expects Kevin de Bruyne to be out injured, City boss Pep Guardiola said: "I don’t know. We will see.
"It is a muscular problem and we will
see in the next days, but tomorrow he is not available."
When have you betrayed your club?
#bbcfootball or text 81111 (UK only)
SMS Message: To all the so called Utd fans on social media saying they want City to beat us to stop liverpool winning the league, shame on you! This is Manchester United we should never want to get beat by anyone especially the very noisy neighbours! from Jon
To all the so called Utd fans on social media saying they want City to beat us to stop liverpool winning the league, shame on you! This is Manchester United we should never want to get beat by anyone especially the very noisy neighbours!
SMS Message: United fans happily "betraying" the club by hoping they lose the derby make me laugh... Most Liverpool fans have their eye on the (in form) Burnley away game for City to maybe get held to a draw... United miss out on CL footy next year and it could be a long time until they see it again..all the while Liverpool could be Prem Champions anyway!...in the words of VVD when asked if United would do Liverpool a favour -"I think they should do themselves a favour" from Ciaran Finnegan
United fans happily "betraying" the club by hoping they lose the derby make me laugh... Most Liverpool fans have their eye on the (in form) Burnley away game for City to maybe get held to a draw... United miss out on CL footy next year and it could be a long time until they see it again..all the while Liverpool could be Prem Champions anyway!...in the words of VVD when asked if United would do Liverpool a favour -"I think they should do themselves a favour"
'City will snap at your ankles' - Solskjaer
Man Utd v Man City (Wed, 20:00 BST)
Manchester United
Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer held a news conference earlier, in which he said he called a meeting after Sunday's defeat at Everton.
He added that his players were "hurting" and "let themselves down", but insists he remains the one in charge and will not be punishing them.
"They will snap at your ankles and heels and kick you," he said. "They will not allow us easy counter-attacking. There will be fouls. No doubt about it because they commit so many players forward and will be stopping us as high as they can.
"There is no hiding place on the pitch. The supporters will back you as long as the effort is there."
Live Reporting
Ben Collins
All times stated are UK
- Solskjaer says his players have 'Manchester United DNA'
- David Luiz: Chelsea defender accuses Burnley of time-wasting after draw
- Robbie Fowler: Brisbane Roar name former Liverpool striker as new boss
- Gossip: Man City ready to break transfer record to sign Rodri
Getty ImagesCopyright: Getty Images 
PACopyright: PA 
PACopyright: PA 
ReutersCopyright: Reuters 
AFPCopyright: AFP 
Latest PostBye for now
So that's it from the latest Premier League news conferences, where we heard from the managers at Manchester City, Arsenal and Wolves.
We'll be back later for live text commentary on important games at each end of the table as Tottenham host Brighton and Watford welcome Southampton.
Until then you can click here to follow the tributes to Celtic legend Billy McNeill, who sadly passed away today aged 79.
I'll also leave you with some of our other top football stories right now:
Get Involved
#bbcfootball or text 81111 (UK only)
Lawro's predictions
Mark Lawrenson
Ex-Liverpool defender
For the midweek fixtures, BBC football expert Mark Lawrenson is up against Ten Tonnes, aka singer-songwriter Ethan Barnett.
Liverpool fans will be hoping for a huge favour from their old rivals Manchester United on Wednesday when they host the Reds' title rivals Manchester City.
Anything less than a victory for the defending Premier League champions will hand Liverpool the advantage in the title race. Will City slip up? Lawro says "no".
"I think Pep Guardiola's side will go to Old Trafford and win," he explained.
"Their second half against Spurs on Saturday was the worst I've seen them play all season but in many ways it was a positive performance from them because it showed they are capable of getting over the line to get the three points."
Lawro's prediction: 0-2. Ten Tonnes' prediction: City are obviously favourites, but I am going with Ole. 3-0.
Get Involved
#bbcfootball or text 81111 (UK only)
'Think about now, not the future' - Nuno
Wolves v Arsenal (Wed, 19:45 BST)
Wolves
Wolves have dropped to 10th in the Premier League and boss Nuno Espirito Santo has told his players to take their frustrations out on Arsenal after being held to a 0-0 draw by Brighton on Saturday.
"Every game is a new challenge, it's a new opportunity to become better as a team and as players," he said.
"That's what we tell the players, compete to the maximum of your ability and just go for it. It's not about where we want to go, it's just a game.
"Tomorrow, think about tomorrow. Play the game tomorrow and don't think about anything else."
Dendoncker hopes for recall
Wolves v Arsenal (Wed, 19:45 BST)
Wolves
Leander Dendoncker is pushing for a recall after being used from the bench in Saturday's 0-0 draw with Brighton.
The Belgian midfielder could replace Morgan Gibbs-White while defender Ruben Vinagre may also come into the starting XI after impressing off the bench on Saturday.
Who will finish in the top four?
#bbcfootball or text 81111 (UK only)
ParkTheBus: All to play for. Spurs plagued by injuries but easier fixtures. Arsenal struggling away from home (and at home). Chelsea couldn't cope with the Burnley bus. United in freefall & 'disrespectful'. Expect it to be Spurs & Chelsea - but only just!
'Tomorrow we need more' - Emery
Wolves v Arsenal (Wed, 19:45 BST)
Arsenal
Arsenal have a poor record away from home and three of their last four games are on the road.
Manager Unai Emery said: "We are speaking about being consistent and competitive. Sometimes we can be competitive but less brilliant than in our game plan and we won doing that. Sometimes you are competitive, play brilliantly and it also gives you the victory.
"The last two matches away, we won against Napoli and against Watford and we weren't brilliant. But we played competitively and it was enough for us to win.
"But we need to improve because maybe in the next match, it's not enough for us to win. We are continuing in our way of thinking to improve, with big competitiveness.
"Tomorrow we need more. We need to be competitive and we need some moments of quality. But above all, we need our capacity to keep moving ahead but being organised and being consistent."
'I'm not thinking about the future' - Emery
Wolves v Arsenal (Wed, 19:45 BST)
Arsenal
Arsenal manager Unai Emery was asked if he's decided which players are staying and going this summer.
"In my career I think it's best to think about the next matches for the best performance," he replied. "I live in the present and it's very important in each match to show, first, our performance and, secondly, to show my capacity.
"I'm not thinking in the future. You are creating your future with the present and you need to play each match by thinking about that, with big spirit to do all we can individually and collectively.
"I believe in the players, I believe in our way and I think we are now in this moment with possibilities."
'It's in our hands' - Emery
Wolves v Arsenal (Wed, 19:45 BST)
Arsenal
If Arsenal can win the last four games then they will secure a top-four finish and Champions League qualification for next season.
Manager Unai Emery said: "We have it in our hands. At the beginning of the season, after winter, we struggled in the table. We were [in a lower] position than we are in now. On Sunday [3-2 defeat by Crystal Palace], we know some details we lost and they used these details to score. But our way is not changing.
"We are on a way at the end of the season with a big possibility to take our first target. [We need to] continue being proud of our season and knowing the key moments are now.
"Tomorrow is also a big moment and a big match for us, a big challenge because we are playing against a team who feel strong with their supporters. But it’s a good moment to try to do all we can, with intelligence. We need to be clear, we need to play with heart but above all being clear in our minds."
Xhaka being assessed, Sokratis back from ban
Wolves v Arsenal (Wed, 19:45 BST)
Arsenal
Now we have a fitness update from Arsenal, who are assessing Granit Xhaka (hip) before their trip to Molineux.
Sokratis Papastathopoulos returns following a two-match ban but Aaron Ramsey (hamstring) and Denis Suarez (groin) remain out.
Hector Bellerin and Rob Holding (both knee) are long-term absentees, although striker Danny Welbeck (ankle) has started on-field rehabilitation and ball work.
'OT not scary for City anymore' - Guardiola
Man Utd v Man City (Wed, 20:00BST)
Simon Stone
BBC Sport
Manchester City went from 1974 to 2008 without winning a game at Old Trafford.
They travel to United tomorrow having won on five of their last seven visits.
City manager Pep Guardiola does not feel such form reversal will have any impact on this meeting, but he accepts it means the Blues have no need to fear a trip across town.
"I don’t make theories about what happened in the past. Every game is completely different," he said.
"The fact is this club grew a lot in the last decade, so it is not scary to go there.
"Before that it was maybe more difficult. The players Manchester City have had in the last decade made this game a little bit more equal."
'The Everton game is over' - Guardiola
Man Utd v Man City (Wed, 20:00 BST)
Manchester City
Pep Guardiola was asked if he was worried about Manchester United's response after losing 4-0 at Everton on Sunday.
The City boss said: "A little bit, yeah but even with a good result, their confidence would be higher.
"It is a derby and all the times we play against United, the derbies are always special games and the players do their best for the fans, for the club.
"I saw the game and I imagine what will happen against us. The game against Everton is over."
'I support Solskjaer' - Guardiola
Man Utd v Man City (Wed, 20:00 BST)
Manchester City
Pep Guardiola was asked about the pressure on Ole Gunnar Solskjaer at derby rivals Manchester United with the Red Devils having gone on a poor run of form since the former United striker was handed the manager's job permanently.
The City boss said: "He came back here after being former player. He knows everything. It is an advantage.
"Everybody needs time," he added.
"In our world, our position, I am close to Solskjaer. I understand perfectly his position. We feel alone and that is why I understand completely his position.
"It happens to all the managers around the world. That is the reality. I understand him perfectly. I support him."
'We expect the best Man Utd' - Guardiola
Man Utd v Man City (Wed, 20:00 BST)
Manchester City
After Sunday's 4-0 defeat at Everton, Manchester United have lost six of their last eight matches in all competitions.
But Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola said: "I expect the best United tomorrow, I am sure.
"They are bright. Football players try to do their best and tomorrow is going to happen. We prepare for their strong points and weak points."
Medical team to work with De Bruyne
Man Utd v Man City (Wed, 20:00 BST)
Simon Stone
BBC Sport
Pep Guardiola says he may have Kevin de Bruyne back before the end of the season but that Manchester City's medical staff will need to work with the Belgian midfielder during the summer to make sure he doesn't suffer from the same problems that have kept him on the sidelines so often this season.
"Yeah, unfortunately this season it has been one injury, then another and another. He had two or three muscular problems," Guardiola said.
"In England you don’t have time to make a preparation. You play every three days and that is not the best way.
"Now he has to pay attention to the little details, to see if he can play one or two more games this season and next season make a good pre-season so he can be safe, to be fit."
Guardiola 'happy' with Mahrez
Man Utd v Man City (Wed, 20:00 BST)
Manchester City
The Mail has reported that Riyad Mahrez has threatened to leave Manchester City due to lack of game time.
But City boss Pep Guardiola has just said: "Riyad will be with us for the next season here and the next one and the next one. I don’t need to speak with him.
"He is a player for us. We are delighted with him and the way he plays. He is happy, we are here. Everyone knows the competition [for places] we have here."
De Bruyne to miss derby
Man Utd v Man City (Wed, 20:00 BST)
Manchester City
Asked how long he expects Kevin de Bruyne to be out injured, City boss Pep Guardiola said: "I don’t know. We will see.
"It is a muscular problem and we will see in the next days, but tomorrow he is not available."
When have you betrayed your club?
#bbcfootball or text 81111 (UK only)
'City will snap at your ankles' - Solskjaer
Man Utd v Man City (Wed, 20:00 BST)
Manchester United
Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer held a news conference earlier, in which he said he called a meeting after Sunday's defeat at Everton.
He added that his players were "hurting" and "let themselves down", but insists he remains the one in charge and will not be punishing them.
The Norwegian believes Wednesday's Manchester derby gives his side the "perfect" opportunity to respond, but has warned his players to be ready for City's "pressing" and "aggression".
"They will snap at your ankles and heels and kick you," he said. "They will not allow us easy counter-attacking. There will be fouls. No doubt about it because they commit so many players forward and will be stopping us as high as they can.
"There is no hiding place on the pitch. The supporters will back you as long as the effort is there."