Liverpool defender Kolo Toure feels his brother Yaya Toure makes a big difference to Manchester City’s morale and Manuel Pellegrini’s men are always better with the Ivorian in their team.
Yaya missed a large chunk of Manchester City’s games in January and February due to his involvement in the African Cup of Nations with the Ivory Coast and Pellegrini’s men did suffer a dip in form without their influential midfielder.
Without him, the English champions won just one, drew three and lost one in the Premier League, allowing Chelsea to build a healthy seven-point lead at the top before the 31-year-old returned for last weekend’s clash against Newcastle United. They also crashed out of the FA Cup to Championship side Middlesbrough at home.
Liverpool will host Manchester City at Anfield today and Kolo feels the Reds have a slight advantage as they are playing at home.
Though he pointed out that Manchester City have been a little inconsistent lately, the defender feels they are a much better team when his brother is in their line-up.
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"They'll be trying to win, we'll be trying to win”, Kolo told Liverpool’s official site.
“But we'll be playing at home and this could make the difference. Their form has been a bit up and down, but definitely, when they have Yaya on their side, they are a different team.”
Kolo feels that in the presence of Yaya, Manchester City’s midfield is more commanding as he always looks to dominate the opposition. He also believes his brother’s presence in the field also helps to lift the morale of the side.
"He's the one who always wants the ball; he is the one who dictates the game and he's going to be available and, for sure, City are going to be better [with him].
"He just brings confidence to the team. He's a very important player. He shows that on the pitch. He takes responsibility."
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