How pivotal are top-four games?

Just over a year ago Manchester City went to the home of their greatest rivals protecting a two-point lead in the title race.

What followed was sensational: Manchester United were crushed 6-1 on their own turf by their ‘noisy neighbours’, a result that gave City far more than three points and a goal-difference boost that would ultimately prove crucial.

It was a statement of intent, one that gave City the belief they could be champions.