Gary Neville has admitted he is 'fascinated' by the prospect of Virgil van Dijk battling Erling Haaland this weekend.
Liverpool host Manchester City at Anfield in a mouthwatering clash on Sunday, with the Reds looking to kickstart their season and close a near-insurmountable 13-point gap on their visitors. Pep Guardiola's side have been impeccable all season, with star-striker Erling Haaland bagging 15 goals in nine league appearances, including back-to-back home hat-tricks.
The Norwegian has at times been unplayable, using a combination of attacking intelligence and all out brute power to dominate opposition defenders. If there is any centre-back that can compete physically, however, it will be Liverpool's van Dijk, and while the Dutch giant is notably out of form this season, former Manchester United captain Neville believes their battle on Sunday will be one for the ages.
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"I still think that no matter what form Liverpool are in and where they are, that it will still feel on Sunday like the toughest game they [City] are going to face," Neville told Sky Sports. "Their record at Anfield, how difficult it is there for every team.
"At the end of the day you know how I feel about those two clubs but the reality is on Sunday you can't help but think Haaland vs van Dijk, you can't stop thinking about how that is going to play out.
"The best centre-back in the world last three or four years - struggled a little bit more this season - up against an absolute phenomenon. Liverpool, with that line that pushes up and that space in behind, I'm fascinated by the game, I can't wait for it to be honest."
Guardiola was able to rest Haaland for their midweek 0-0 draw at FC Copenhagen, but his absence from the lineup and substitution against Southampton had raised concerns that the 22-year-old had picked up an injury. But, speaking to the media ahead of Sunday's trip to Anfield, the City boss insisted his striker was fit and ready to go.
Guardiola said: “He was tired [Haaland], and Bernardo and others as well, but they feel good and are ready for Sunday.”
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