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PREMIER LEAGUE

Liverpool: James Milner supporting United in the derby "for the first time in my life"

James Milner says he won't be watching the Manchester derby, but he hopes Man United can do Liverpool a big favour by beating Guardiola's team.

Liverpool: James Milner supporting United in the derby "for the first time in my life"
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Liverpool midfielder James Milner will be supporting Manchester United for the first time, but he will avoid watching their clash against City. Wednesday's Manchester derby shapes as being vital in the Premier League title race, with Jürgen Klopp's men two points clear at the top but City holding a game in hand.

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GEOFF CADDICKAFP

"I check the result on my phone" - Milner

Milner, a former City and Leeds United player, said on this occasion, he will be making an exception to cheer on Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's men. "First time in my life," he said. "But I won't be watching. It's a bit of a waste of energy, willing the ball in the other goal. I can't do anything about it. I'll maybe put my phone away for a few hours and check it after. I've no idea what I'll do, maybe go out for some food.I’m sure it’ll be a good game, between two good teams".

Run-in to the title

With three games left, Liverpool are up to 88 points and could potentially  finish the campaign with 97 but still not win a first league title since 1990. If that happens, they would be set a new points record for ending as runners-up.

While the Reds have matches against Huddersfield Town, Newcastle United and Wolves left, Manchester City will meet Burnley, Leicester City and Brighton and Hove Albion after the derby.

"There's three games left after that [derby]. People think United is a challenge, but it's not the only one," Milner said. "It's an old cliché, but the Premier League is tough – whoever you play, teams battling at the bottom. Trust me, I know - remember QPR? To beat anyone is tough when everything's is on the line. "