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Manchester Evening News
Manchester Evening News
Sport
Jack Flintham

Oleksandr Zinchenko knows Arsenal draw opens the door for Man City in title race

Oleksandr Zinchenko was the epitome of disappointment as he slumped onto the bench at Anfield.

The former Manchester City man was nutmegged by Trent Alexander-Arnold in the build-up to Roberto Firmino's equaliser in the thrilling 2-2 draw against Liverpool. As individual mistakes go, it was not shockingly embarrassing.

However, with his head in his hands, the Ukrainian knew that he may have contributed to giving City that glimmer of hope which the Gunners could not afford to succeed. Arsenal looked to be coasting to victory at one stage.

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Gabriel Martinelli and Gabriel Jesus' goals in the opening 30 minutes had the Merseyside club rocking. But, from Mohammed Salah's goal onwards, Mikel Arteta's side had their backs to the wall.

In truth, the result could have been a lot worse if not for the magnificent saves of Aaron Ramsdale. While most inside the Arsenal camp have taken the draw as a point gained, rather than two points dropped, Zinchenko's reaction showed that he knows the door has now been opened.

City sit six points behind the Gunners with a game in hand. Due to their superior goal difference the Blues know that, if they win all their remaining matches, they will retain their Premier League crown.

Pep Guardiola's team are masters of the run-in. We have seen it time and time again.

They have the ability to create a run of form which leaves rivals looking over their shoulders. No doubt the irony that Liverpool are the team to spark City's push for the title again will not be lost on anyone.

Guardiola's team have shown themselves to be imperious form in recent weeks. The victory at Southampton on Saturday was a signal of intent and a warning that City are not going to back down without a fight.

The ball now finds itself in the Blues' court. City face Bayern Munich on Tuesday night in the Champions League before hosting Leicester City at the weekend. Arsenal meanwhile travel to West Ham who have rediscovered their confidence after beating Fulham on Saturday.

City will now continue to turn the screw and Zinchenko knows that his new club cannot slip up again.

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