LONDON: Manchester United defender Chris Smalling believes that their battle with Liverpool to finish as Premier League runners-up behind leaders Manchester City has intensified the rivalry between the two clubs this season. Victory over Liverpool on Saturday will increase their advantage over Jurgen Klopp’s third-placed side to five points and improve their chances of cementing second place. The two teams played out a goalless draw at Anfield earlier in the season but Smalling suggested that their proximity in the table with nine games left this season has heightened the level of competitiveness. “I think there’s always that rivalry, but even more this year,” Smalling told the club’s website. “It’s a long time until you play them (Liverpool) again, so you need to get those bragging rights.” --REUTERS

Source: New Strait Times March 09, 2018 17:48 UTC