A rivalry that has existed since the early ages of football is reborn on Sunday, as both Liverpool and Manchester United head into battle at Old Trafford. Manchester United are the in-form side in the Premier League, and will hope to extend their winning streak to six games against a bitter enemy.
1. Passion from both sides
This game will offer one thing for sure; passion. Neither side will want to lose this game, and it’s evident that both sides will play for the victory in this colossal clash of the English giants. Passion has been demonstrated over generations in this fixture, and many names spring to mind when the word is mentioned. United’s new signings will get a real chance to demonstrate their spirit and love for the club on Sunday, and full commitment and effort is to be expected from all.
2. Not a walk in the park for United
Football is football. United have the home advantage, are on a 5 game winning streak and sit third in the Premier League table. Liverpool have failed to gain momentum this season, crashed out of the Champions League in midweek and simply haven’t looked anywhere near as dangerous as last season. However, this fixture is different. United v Liverpool can go any way, regardless of the strength or momentum that the current team withholds. Liverpool will look to make a bold statement with a victory over United, and they may do this. The result is nearly impossible to call, and the unpredictable nature of this affair makes it ever more exciting for the neutral football fanatic.
3. The possible return of Angel di Maria
The Argentine has suffered a short spell on the sidelines due to a minor hamstring problem, but will face a late test to determine whether he’ll feature on Sunday. A United team containing the British transfer record signing looks an ever more dangerous one, which will rattle the Liverpool defence. The 26-year-old has picked up 3 goals and 6 assists since joining van Gaal’s squad in the summer. He offers another dimension to United’s attacking play, and his presence would significantly improve United’s chances of grabbing the three points.
4. David de Gea (again)
The United shot-stopper has consistently gained attention and praise from the world of football, as his cat-like reflexes are mainly to thank for United’s excellent run of form. Even against Southampton he made saves when he needed to, and despite being hardly tested, he made a couple of fantastic stops. If Liverpool play the pace card with players such as Raheem Sterling and Lazar Markovic, then the Spaniard may be put to the test as United’s defence have been fairly easy to cut open in recent weeks. However, if de Gea continues to illustrate this flawless run of form, then he’ll be a hero once again for the Old Trafford Faithful.
5. A very different occasion to last season
Last year, David Moyes’ Manchester United were pummeled 3-0 by Liverpool at Old Trafford, a result that Liverpool fans haven’t let slip since it occurred. However, it’s a whole new ball game this time around, as Louis van Gaal’s squad are demonstrating a clear contrast to the United under David Moyes. And, with the absence of Luis Suarez (Barcelona) and Daniel Sturridge (injured), Liverpool are a significantly weaker outfit. Whether this will spur United to victory is yet to be seen, but another landslide victory for the away side would be even more shocking than the previous fixture.
