Liverpool's hopes of securing a Champions League place were dealt a significant blow this afternoon after wins for both Manchester United and Newcastle United.
The gap between the Reds and the top-four now stands at ten points, though Jurgen Klopp's side have the opportunity to reduce this deficit to seven points should they secure a win over Tottenham Hotspur at Anfield.
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United put an end to Aston Villa's ten-game unbeaten run, stretching back to February, to enhance their chances of returning to Europe's elite competition courtesy of a solitary Bruno Fernandes strike. Newcastle, meanwhile, fought back from being one goal to earn a 3-1 victory at St James' Park.
Villa's defeat means Liverpool have the opportunity to leapfrog Unai Emery's men, and Spurs in fifth, should three points be earned at Anfield. The Reds now trial third-placed Newcastle by 12 points, though have a game in hand on the Toon Army.
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