FILE PHOTO - Soccer Football - Premier League - Newcastle United vs Manchester United - St James' Park, Newcastle, Britain - February 11, 2018 Manchester United's Chris Smalling looks dejected after conceding the first goal Action Images via Reuters/Carl Recine
(Reuters) - Manchester United defender Chris Smalling believes that their battle with Liverpool to finish as Premier League runners-up behind leaders Manchester City has intensified the rivalry between the two clubs this season.
United occupy second in the league on 62 points, 16 behind City. Victory over Liverpool on Saturday will increase their advantage over Juergen Klopp's third-placed side to five points and improve their chances of cementing second place.
