The Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez admits that his team have had problems, but they are still close to the top of the table, and he thinks that a few wins will change everything again.

Benitez believes that if Liverpool can beat City it will kickstart their assault on a Champions League place again.

“I am 100 per cent sure everything will be different if we can win the game against City,” he said.

“The season can be good if we do well in that game. Maybe we can start our season now. Winning would be a big boost for everyone and if that happens I am sure we will see the best of the team.

“We have to look at the big picture. We know we have had some problems and made some mistakes, but still we are so close. If we start winning games, then everything will be different if we win two or three in a row.

“The confidence will be high and everything will be easier. We have a better squad than people think. It is just a question of getting some key players back.”

There is just one point between City and Liverpool, and a win for either team will give them a boost. Mark Hughes team has also floundered lately with five consecutive draws, so they are also looking for a confidence booster, so this game could have a large influence on the Champions League aspirations of both teams.