City win was Liverpool's worst performance of season - Milner

The Reds stole a march in the chase behind Premier League leaders Chelsea by beating their title rivals, but the England international was not satisfied.

James Milner said Liverpool delivered their worst performance of the season against former club Manchester City, despite striking a blow in the Premier League title race with a 1-0 win.

Georginio Wijnaldum's first-half header was enough to seal three points for the Reds at Anfield and keep them in touch with runaway leaders Chelsea.

Liverpool were more composed for much of the game and they held firm in front of a renewed attacking focus from City after the break.

And though dissatisfied with how the game had unfolded tactically, Milner said the grit on display by his team showed they are genuine contenders at the top.

"It was a tough game, they're a top team," Milner told BT Sport.

"It was just about the result, it was arguably one of our worst performances of the season.

"But it was a gutsy performance, great defending from everyone right through the pitch, we ground out the result and we have to do that.