Rio Ferdinand supports Trent Alexander-Arnold’s candid remarks about Liverpool-Man City before the title match.

Rio Ferdinand, the former Manchester United defender, has dismissed suggestions that Liverpool’s Trent Alexander-Arnold is trying to stoke up the rivalry with spicy comments ahead of their crucial clash against Manchester City. The two teams will meet on Sunday in a match that could have a significant impact on the outcome of the Premier League title race.

Liverpool currently sit at the top of the table, one point ahead of City and two clear of Arsenal. When asked about Alexander-Arnold’s comments, Ferdinand stated, “These games don’t need any hyping and he is experienced enough to know that. He is an honest kid, I don’t think he is sitting there playing a game trying to get anyone’s back up. He just sees things as he sees it and he is a massive Liverpool fan. It’s a big game, I can’t wait to see it.”

City have been dominant in the Premier League, winning the title five times in the last six years. The only season they missed out on the title was when Liverpool were crowned champions in 2020. However, Guardiola’s side are currently facing potential punishment after being charged with 115 alleged breaches of the Premier League’s financial rules.

Former City defender Joleon Lescott questioned Alexander-Arnold’s comments, particularly regarding the importance of the fans. “I don’t think you can say any trophy or any game means more to your fans than another set of fans because it’s equally important to everyone,” Lescott stated.

While City have already secured their place in the quarter-finals of the UEFA Champions League with a comfortable win over Copenhagen, Liverpool will be in European action on Thursday evening as they face Sparta Prague in the first leg of their UEFA Europa League last-16 clash.

For those looking to watch the Sparta Prague v Liverpool match, it will be live on TNT Sports 1 and TNT Sports Ultimate, with coverage starting at 17:00 UK time on Thursday, March 7. TNT Sports is available on major TV platforms, including BT, EE, Sky, and Virgin Media. Fans can also use the Pub Finder tool to locate local establishments showing TNT Sports.