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Liverpool Echo
Liverpool Echo
Sport
Connor O'Neill

Man City boss Pep Guardiola can't resist Liverpool dig at Premier League bosses after fixture row

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has joked that the Premier League fixture organisers must be Liverpool fans following yesterday's confirmation of the Christmas schedule.

City have reacted furiously to their side's schedule throughout December - questioning the “sporting integrity” of the Premier League.

Guardiola's side have saw their game away to Wolves pushed back from Boxing Day to December 27, with a 7.45pm kick-off.

The Reigning Premier League champions will then face Sheffield United at home on December 29 at 6pm, giving City's players less than 48 hours to prepare for the game.

While Jurgen Klopp ’s side will have an extra 24 hours' rest ahead of their home against Wolves on December 29, with their Boxing Day encounter against Leicester kicking off at 8pm.

“Maybe the broadcasters are fans for some clubs,” Guardiola replied with a smile when asked his thoughts on the schedule and his club's reaction.

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“We have meetings with Premier League, managers, UEFA, they are so glad, nice pictures, it doesn’t matter, we have to play.

“It is what it is. Since I came here, every season it’s the same, the broadcasters are the bosses, it’s not about us.

“But I love to play boxing day, when the families go to the stadiums, the players travel, but the system does not protect the players too much.”

City, who take on Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park tomorrow, currently trail Liverpool by eight points in the Premier League title race, but the despite the gap, Guardiola is banking on his side to come from behind.

He added: “Every season is different and every situation is different.

“I’m not going to change my opinion on my team, we are going to try to come back and be like the team we want to be.

“We have to be focused on improving our game and winning games.” 

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