Rubbish to claim we’re crumbling, says Milner

JAMES MILNER has come out fighting and rubbished accusations that Liverpool are crumbling under the pressure of a title fight. Liverpool will relinquish top spot tonight if Milner’s old club Manchester City beat Everton and that would complete a remarkable eight days, given Jurgen Klopp’s squad could have taken a seven-point lead by beating Leicester last week. Liverpool are struggling to show the swagger of December, when they put together an eightmatch winning streak, but Milner (right) gave a withering look when it was suggested nerves have taken hold. He is the only Liverpool player who knows what it takes to win the Premier League, with Manchester City in 2012 and 2014, and he was also relegated with Leeds. Milner said: ‘These are the times you should be enjoying. The last couple of games we haven’t played well, but we’re still picking up points.’ The situation will improve when Liverpool’s injury issues clear and yesterday Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain was included in the Champions League knockout squad, although he is not expected to play before April. ‘Pressure is irrelevant,’ said Milner. ‘Playing for relegation and livelihoods and people’s jobs, that’s pressure. ‘We’re clear at the top in February. Concerned? I’m happy!’ The FA, meanwhile, have written to Klopp to ask for his observations after his comments about referee Kevin Friend following the 1-1 draw at West Ham. The Liverpool boss had a heated discussion with the official at full-time.