Steve Nicol has moved to temper expectations after Liverpool's win over West Ham United - but admits they could challenge Manchester City for the title.
The Reds moved up to second in the Premier League table after they saw off the Hammers 3-1 at Anfield. Mohamed Salah had fired Jurgen Klopp's men in front from the penalty spot before Darwin Nunez cushioned a volley beyond Alphonse Areola to restore their lead.
Jarrod Bowen's diving header had restored parity to ensure the sides went in at the break level, but Liverpool moved up a gear after the restart and rounded off the scoring when Diogo Jota stabbed home from Virgil van Dijk's knock-down.
The Reds overcame the challenge of West Ham to extend their unbeaten run in the top-flight and ensured there was no hangover from their midweek Europa League involvement.
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Afterwards, Nicol moved to cool the excitement surrounding the display, citing that they "should" take three points at home to the Hammers. However, the Liverpool legend noted that if their defensive structure improves away from home, they can compete with City, who have won five of the last six titles.
"There's an expectation that Liverpool in games like this, no disrespect to West Ham, but at Anfield it should be three points," he told ESPN FC.
"There was a little hiccup with the equaliser but again, three goals, going forward Liverpool are very difficult to stop and if they can sort themselves out defensively, especially away from home, then they might be able to mount a challenge to Manchester City.
"This is a result you expect at Anfield. The
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