European hangover won’t derail Liverpool’s title bid, says Guardiola

MANCHESTER: Pep Guardiola does not expect Liverpool to be affected by their Champions League semi-final defeat by Barcelona as they resume the battle for the Premier League title with his Manchester City side.

Juergen Klopp’s men were outplayed in a 3-0 loss at the Nou Camp in the first leg on Wednesday, and travel to Newcastle United in their penultimate game of the league campaign on Saturday.

“I think the game was incredibly good. Both sides were incredible,” Guardiola told reporters ahead of City’s home clash against Leicester City on Monday.

“Liverpool were outstanding. I enjoyed it a lot watching them. They fought a lot.

“Of course Newcastle is not easy, like Leicester is not easy, so we are going to see what happens but they are going to be well prepared to try to win the game.”

Leicester will arrive at the Etihad Stadium with Jamie Vardy in fine form, finding the net 11 times in his last 11 league appearances.

Guardiola hailed Leicester boss Brendan Rodgers’ impact on Vardy’s style of play since the Northern Irishman took charge at the King Power Stadium in February.

“He (Vardy) has done incredible in this league. He’s an incredible striker - his movement, finishing, fighting,” Guardiola added.

“It helps that before Leicester were a counter-attacking team and he could make runs in behind. Now with Brendan Rodgers, they have added another way to play.” — Reuters