Liverpool have a hold on the title race, Mac Allister admits

Liverpool midfielder Alexis Mac Allister says that Arne Slot’s side ‘have a real hold on the title race’ after delivering a 2-0 victory over Aston Villa at Anfield.

Darwin Nunez rounded Emi Martinez to beat the keeper from a tight angle in a pulsating first half, while Mohamed Salah rounded off the win late in the game by showing excellent composure when clean through on goal.

The victory came just minutes after Manchester City had produced what was described as an “abject” performance against Brighton to lose 2-1, leaving City to race five points clear at the top of the Premier League standings.

And Mac Allister says that the Merseysiders are now real contenders to dethrone Pep Guardiola’s side.

Asked by TNT Sport if Liverpool have a hold on the title race, he replied: “Yes, of course. We’re top of the league, five points ahead, that means something.

“As I say, we’ll go step-by-step. If you asked me before the season started, I wouldn’t say that we were candidates to win the title but now, it looks like it. We’re going to keep working and keep trying to get better.”

Salah shines again

Mac Allister then praised Salah, who was once again a star performer for the Reds, getting his 20th direct goal contribution of the season already with a deft finish after breaking free late on.

“He’s so important for this team – not just the team, the club as well. He’s a legend,” the World Cup winner said. “I’m happy for him and when you have him, you know he’s going to deliver and get the numbers. We’re happy he’s playing for us.”

One of the few negatives from Liverpool’s victory was Trent Alexander-Arnold limping off injured in the first half to be replaced by Conor Bradley, with the severity of the full-back’s issue as yet unclear.