Manchester City forward Phil Foden has not been surprised by Liverpool’s emergence as title rivals this season but believes they have benefited from being under less scrutiny.

Pep Guardiola’s City head into Sunday’s showdown at Anfield eight points behind Arne Slot’s side, with the Dutchman impressing everyone by how he has seamlessly taken over from Jurgen Klopp and guided the team to the top of the table.

That has left an out-of-form City, Arsenal, Chelsea and Brighton (all nine behind) trailing in their wake.

But Foden said Liverpool’s pedigree meant it should not really be a surprise.

“It’s not surprised me personally how good Liverpool are,” he said.

“This season they have gone under the radar in terms of a lot of people were talking about City and Arsenal fighting for the title and not so much talked about Liverpool, so I think that’s helped them in a way, they’ve had less pressure on their shoulders.

“They have done really well but I knew Liverpool were always going to be up there challenging for the title with the squad they have.

“There is still a long way to go and we know how quickly it can change.

“There are teams that no-one is speaking about, like Chelsea. I feel like this season there are more teams look like they are challenging for the title.

“We will see what happens but it is tight at the top between us all. It’s going to be an exciting season.”