Liverpool’s title dreams clash with Chelsea’s top-four hopes when the two rivals meet later this afternoon.

Jurgen Klopp’s men will aim to avoid any kind of “slip”, maintaining their surge towards the title, while the Blues want to enact a similarly bitter case of déjà vu to silence Anfield. What a mouth-watering game we're in for at Anfield later, perhaps the most crucial game left in the Premier League title race.

In a high-octane game, it’ll all come down to who’s engine turns out more prolific. Naby Keita’s resurgent form means a lot of hopes will be pinned on him to run midfield, while N’Golo Kante aims to break their spirit with his relentless approach.

Two influential midfielder’s crucial to both team’s core, it’ll come down to who outworks the other to win the contest for their side

Here's a closer look.

Naby Keita

Having taken his time to adapt to the Premier League’s intensity, Naby Keita’s now thriving in a free role at Jurgen Klopp’s side. He’s scored twice in their last two games, looking dangerous with his movement in around the final third.

However, his work in controlling midfield’s also been commendable, as his impressive distribution ability and hard-tackling demeanour can destabilize Chelsea’s midfield. Liverpool needs a trump card to unlock Chelsea’s stubborn defence, as Keita can act as their extra attacker by getting into promising positions and freeing up his attacking trio to cause maximum damage.

TT Grade: A

N’Golo Kante

Roman Abramovich surely must be labelled as a genius for signing N'Golo Kante for just £32.22 million (as per Transfermarkt) as he's become one of the world's best midfielders since arriving at Stamford Bridge.

Despite being shifted to a different position under Sarriball, N’Golo Kante’s remained as the beaming heart of Chelsea’s midfield.

The Frenchman’s undying energy and persistent approach have troubled many sides, haunting Liverpool in the past as well. Kante will look to use his impressive game-reading and pressing ability to steal possession as well as create holes in Liverpool’s midfield.

He’ll be the link to stop distribution to their attacking trio and if the Frenchman rediscovers his deadly ragged approach, Liverpool can find it impossible to find their flair at Anfield.

TT Grade: A+

TT Verdict:

Keita might be enjoying a sublime run of form, but Kante’s experience and undying will could triumph on Sunday. As the Frenchman looks to reiterate his world-class status, he can run all over Liverpool’s midfield, making things extremely uncomfortable for Keita and the Reds.

Liverpool fans, do you think Keita can overpower Kante and co on Sunday? Join the discussion by commenting below.