sentences:  Manchester United's steady improvement had continued as they had continued to narrow the gap between themselves and Liverpool – now standing at nine places but just six points.December was a better month for Liverpool, who began it with an impressive 4–1 win at Manchester City (now managed by former Everton boss Howard Kendall).A 1–1 home draw with Villa followed, before a superb 5–2 win over fellow title contenders Chelsea on 16 December.