Liverpool’s grip on the Premier League summit has tightened and loosened in equal measure over the past week. A seven-point cushion looked set to grow even further before the chaotic closing seconds of the Merseyside derby.
Instead, James Tarkowski’s 98th-minute strike for Everton denied them victory and left them with a gut-wrenching draw.
That late setback has thrown an extra layer of intrigue over Sunday’s clash with Wolverhampton Wanderers at Anfield. With Arsenal winning on Saturday, the gap at the top has now shrunk to four points, piling the pressure back onto the Reds to respond.
Liverpool were moments away from a commanding lead in the title race, only to be dragged back into the battle. That disappointment was compounded by Curtis Jones and Arne Slot seeing red in the post-match melee. Slot, who awaits a ban verdict, may yet be in the dugout against Wolves.
Despite the emotional fallout from Goodison Park, Liverpool still have their fate in their own hands. They remain unbeaten in the league since early December and have turned Anfield into a fortress once again.
Four straight home wins, three of them featuring four-goal hauls, underline the hosts’ dominance in front of their own fans.
However, there have been cracks in recent weeks. An FA Cup exit to Plymouth Argyle was a stark reminder that this side is not invincible. Two wins in their last five across all competitions suggest momentum is not entirely on their side.
Wolves arrive in resurgent form, having put together back-to-back 2-0 wins over Aston Villa and Blackburn Rovers. Those victories have given Vitor Pereira’s side a much-needed boost as they battle to stay clear of the relegation scrap.
Matheus Cunha has been a key figure in Wolves’ recent improvement. The Brazilian forward has the quality to trouble any defence, and his influence will be crucial if the visitors are to cause an upset.
Anfield, though, has been an unhappy hunting ground for Wolves. They have not won a league game there since 2010 and were beaten 2-1 by Liverpool in the reverse fixture at Molineux.
For Slot’s men, this is not just about three points. It is about reaffirming their dominance and ensuring Arsenal’s recent charge does not become a serious threat. The pressure has been cranked up, and Liverpool must respond.
