ANFIELD’S A

He knew the victory was crucial to put pressure on title rivals who play today, and said: “We want to show our contenders that we can keep on winning. That is the most difficult in sport, and the most fascinating, like the tennis champions who keep on winning and winning.

“It’s too early to see how decisive these points today are. You just have to win your own games, not worry about the other teams, and expect they will drop minimum points through a season.”

Told about his personal milestone, Guardiola added: “My 400th win – I didn’t know that. Congratulations Pep. And I am very pleased to win as we did today because it wasn’t easy.”

FIVE HIGH: Guardiola’s 400th win put City five points clear at the top of the table ON THE MARCH: Ilkay Gundogan’s goal to make it 3-1 was a cracker