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Gary Neville explains why Chelsea and Liverpool have advantage over rivals
CHELSEA and Liverpool have a clear mindset for the back end of the season compared to their top-six rivals.
Clive Allen: Premier League is Chelsea's to lose
That is according to player-turned-pundit Gary Neville.
Antonio Conte and Jurgen Klopp have the freedom of preparing their teams for the run-in without the distraction of European football.
Manchester City and Arsenal are competing in the knockout stages of the Champions League, while Tottenham and Manchester United are in the Europa League round of 32.
Gary Neville feels Liverpool and Chelsea will benefit from their rivals' European action
The FA Cup is also set to interfere with schedules going forward, although Liverpool have already been knocked out.
And United legend Neville feels the interchanging between competitions will prove particularly challenging for even the top sides.
"What City have in the next few weeks is confusing," Neville told Sky Sports’ Monday Night Football.
Arsene Wenger's Arsenal will have to turn their attentions to the Champions League this week
They have different cup competitions and Manchester United, Arsenal and Tottenham have the same
"They have different cup competitions and Manchester United, Arsenal and Tottenham have the same.
“Chelsea and Liverpool do have that sort of clear mind."
On City’s hopes of catching Chelsea, Neville added: ”It could happen but it's a long shot. I don't think it will happen and I don't think Pep Guardiola thinks it will happen.
Gary Neville feels only injuries will stop Antonio Conte's Chelsea lifting the Premier League title
"What could still happen? Chelsea could get injuries and I think that's the one thing that could damage them.
"If City could keep Vincent Kompany fit for three months and get the football and leadership qualities out of him, they could go on a big run."
Chelsea lead City by eight points following last night's 2-0 win at Bournemouth, but Spurs, Arsenal, Liverpool and United are all within four points of Guardiola’s side with 13 games to go.
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