Liverpool have the prevailing top-four wind in their sails

It’s been a bruising few days in the battleground for the top four, which isn’t over yet as third-place Southampton take on West Ham and Manchester United in fifth entertain Burnley on Wednesday night, though some serious blows have already been traded.

Firstly Tottenham took a chunk out of bitter rivals Arsenal on a derby-themed Saturday as Liverpool drew a blank at Everton to remain at arm’s length.

Then the pendulum swung again as the Gunners picked themselves up to scrape past Leicester 2-1 and the Reds abruptly halted Spurs’ progress thanks to a barnstorming 3-2 victory at Anfield on Tuesday night.

Ahead of the second-round of midweek fixtures only three points separate Saints in third from Liverpool in seventh, and the prices are just as fascinating.

Although still bringing up the rear for now, it’s arguable that the aforementioned Reds – who are 9/2 to make the Champions League spots – have picked up momentum at the opportune time.

Unlike all the teams between Brendan Rodgers’ charges and Manchester City in second, Liverpool have not tasted a single league defeat in nine games, while all of the others have suffered at least one loss in their last five top-flight matches.

A defeat or even a draw against Spurs could have shattered Liverpool’s 3-4-3 propelled renaissance like a rock through a glass coffee table; however a win will have galvanised it no end.

Daniel Sturridge’s return to the fold only provides more belief on Merseyside, while Man United are still to travel to Anfield in March.

There’s no doubting that this intriguing race for what is essentially two slots desired by five teams will take many more twists, but right now Liverpool have the bit between their gnashers and are a fine price to boot.

All Odds and Markets are correct as of the date of publishing.

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