Jurgen Klopp believes Liverpool have no room to ‘get soft’ in their bid to keep pace with Manchester City in the Premier League title race.
A win during Wednesday’s visit of Leeds United would see the Anfield club close the gap with the reigning champions to three points at the summit.
City previously held a 12-point lead over the Reds but last weekend’s defeat to Tottenham Hotspur has allowed their North West rivals to bridge the gulf.
And Klopp admits that the relentlessness of Pep Guardiola’s side over recent years means that his own charges cannot afford any bouts of complacency.
He said: “Let me say with all respect, what City is doing is incredible.
“I think we are pushing each other as well, and not only us because I don’t forget the other teams: Chelsea, United, Arsenal, Tottenham, whoever is there.
“But we are pushing each other, I think that’s how it is a little bit. There is no chance to get a bit soft or whatever because the other one will be there ready to catch you.
“I think what Pep said when he said we are a pain in the lower back, or can be, that’s a good description. That’s how it should be.
“We try to be as annoying as possible until we have a chance to overtake. I don’t know when that will be – if that will be the case.
“But what I’ve always said, in the decisive moments of the season, it’s not February. It’s March and April.
“In the run of games, we have to be at our absolute best. We have to play the best possible season for us.”