Liverpool manager, Jurgen Klopp has warned that his Manchester City counterpart, Pep Guardiola will push them to the limit in the Premier League race.
The German also said the title race will be decided in March and April.
Klopp’s men will go three points behind league leaders City with victory over Leeds United at Anfield on Wednesday.
A run of eight consecutive wins has seen the Reds get to within a touching distance of Guardiola’s men in the league, reach the Carabao Cup final and take a big step towards the Champions League quarter-finals.
When asked about the title race at a news conference on Tuesday, Klopp replied: “First and foremost, it’s important that we are close to the top whoever is at the top because that shows that some things are going in the right direction.
“In the last four seasons — we were not around one year because of our problems and we had some struggles — but before it was an insane race. Both teams are able to do some special stuff, I have to say with all respect [because] what City is doing is incredible.
“I think we are pushing each other as well, not only us because I don’t forget the other teams like Chelsea, [Manchester] United, Arsenal, and Tottenham. But, we are pushing each other and that’s how it is and it keeps you going. There is no chance to get a bit soft because the other one will be there immediately to catch you.
“I think what Pep said that we are the pain in the lower back, that’s a good description and that’s how it should be. We try to be as annoying as somehow possible until we have a chance to overtake, but I don’t know when that will be or if that will be the case but what I always said is that we have the decisive moments of the season but it’s not now in February, it’s March and April.”