How Everton could gift Liverpool the Premier League title when they play Manchester City

Penultimate match for Manchester City at Goodison Park could be decisive in deciding who wins the league

Sylvain Distin up against Sergio Aguero earlier this season (GETTY IMAGES)

Everton's pursuit of the fourth and final Champions League place could well present something of a dilemma.

In their penultimate game of the season they host Manchester City at Goodison Park. With the Citizens among three teams competing for the Premier League, defeat for Manuel Pellegrini's side could be devastating.

But for the other teams in the battle to top the table it would be a massive boost, and along with Chelsea, the other team hoping to win the trophy is Everton's Merseyside rivals Liverpool.

So there it is - with victory Everton can boost their own chances of Champions League football, but in doing so, could gift Liverpool their first league title in 24 years.

For Toffees centre-back Sylvain Distin, there is no question which of those scenarios is more important.

"We've spoken about it with some of the staff and said 'What if we have to beat City to be in the Champions League but by doing that Liverpool win the league?'," he said.

"The funny thing is some people would rather we don't get Champions League as long as they don't win the league. It's mad!

"Personally I'd rather be in the Champions League. You can't miss a chance for that. It would be amazing for the city if both clubs made it. I think deep down both sets of fans would like it if both clubs were in it."

If Liverpool are to put themselves in a position to win the league they will likely need a positive result this coming weekend when they themselves host Manchester City.

Both Merseyside clubs will be confident when facing Yaya Toure and co - each have lost just one game at home all term.