Liverpool and Man City ‘hold peace talks’ to end ‘bad blood’ and ‘toxic atmosphere’ between rivals

Premier League rivals Liverpool and Manchester City have reportedly ‘held peace talks’ ahead of their clash in the Carabao Cup later this month.

The rivalry between Liverpool and Man City has grown more bitter over the past few seasons as they have battled for the Premier League title.

The teams have combined to produce some brilliant games of football in recent times but there have also been some ‘ugly scenes’ at their fixtures.

The Telegraph note that coins were thrown at Pep Guardiola during Liverpool’s 1-0 win at Anfield over Man City back in October.

The supporters of City were not innocent though as chants relating to the Hillsborough disaster were heard and Liverpool’s concourse was “vandalised with graffiti”.

A statement from Liverpool read: “We are deeply disappointed to hear vile chants relating to football-stadium tragedies from the away section during today’s game at Anfield.

“The concourse in the away section was also vandalised with graffiti of a similar nature.

“We know the impact such behaviour has on families, survivors and all those associated with such disasters. We are working with the relevant authorities and we will also work with Manchester City in order to do our utmost to ensure these chants are eradicated from football altogether.”

The Telegraph add that ‘peace talks’ have been held in an attempt to ‘improve the strained relations between the clubs’.

Recent incidents are said to have ‘contributed to the toxic atmosphere’ when they meet, especially given the ‘bad blood’.

The report claims that ‘senior officials from both clubs attended a meeting last month with representatives from City Matters, City’s elected fan network, and the Liverpool Supporters’ Board’ all present.

‘A commitment was made to work on improving the atmosphere’ at upcoming matches. It is also suggested that ‘there is an acceptance that greater efforts need to be made to address the situation’.

Man City host Liverpool at the Etihad on Thursday, December 22 in the fourth round of the Carabao Cup.

Their next game in the Premier League takes place at the Etihad on April 1.

The report later adds that season ticket holders from both clubs are ‘expected to be contacted before Thursday’s match to outline the new commitments’.

The Telegraph also relayed a joint statement from City Matters and the Liverpool Supporters Board.

“Over the past five or six seasons, our matches have been some of the most…