Manchester United will face Liverpool in their grudge match against a historic rival who seem to be turning the tables as far as current league standing is concerned. For long, the Reds have lived in the shadow of the Old Trafford outfit when it came to comparisons between the two most historic clubs in England.
But like in Manchester, the dynamics have changed in recent years especially since the departure of Sir Alex Ferguson. Liverpool are currently in the second position with 42 points, 2 points off leaders Manchester City but have this game in hand. While, Manchester United are languishing in the 6th place, with 16 points separating the two teams after just 16 games played.
But these figures will not deter Jose Mourinho. He is a champion and despite the hurdles he has had to face since his appointment as manager of United, he remains a force to reckon with, especially in these massive fixtures. Jose knows how not to lose and with a shade of luck going his way, can turn that into 3 unlikely points. The travelling fans will hope the Portuguese can roll back the years and come up with another tactical masterclass.
MANCHESTER UNITED TEAM NEWS
Jose was his usual cryptic state at the press conference. The squad has been hit hard with injuries in recent weeks and a number of players have been deemed doubtful including the likes of Chris Smalling, Luke Shaw, Diogo Dalot, Matteo Darmian, Anthony Martial, Marcos Rojo and McTominay. Alexis Sanchez remains out.
But a number of them are expected to be passed fit in time. Check out the latest on the travelling squad here.
PREDICTED MANCHESTER UNITED LINEUP VS LIVERPOOL (4-3-3)
DEFENCE
David de Gea will start in goal. The Spaniard seems to have been overshadowed by Ederson and Alisson this season and this will be the perfect opportunity for the Premier League veteran amongst the three to lay down a marker.
We expect Diogo Dalot to start at right-back. He has impressed in whatever little we have seen of him and will have to be at his best facing up to Sadio Mane. Chris Smalling is expected to overcome his injury troubles and start in defence. Phil Jones had a shocker in midweek but with Bailly not in Jose’s good books, might get an opportunity to redeem himself. Ashley Young should start at left-back.
MIDFIELD
Marouane Fellaini and Nemanja Matic seem likely to start in deep midfield. Jose will be eager to stifle Liverpool’s midfield with physicality and these two will be tasked accordingly. Paul Pogba has fallen out of favour once again and Ander Herrera might be preferred but we still believe the Frenchman needs to play this fixture.
ATTACK
Jesse Lingard is likely to start on the right after getting Jose’s vote of confidence along with Marus Rashford who is expected to lead the line. On the left, Juan Mata might get a start with Anthony Martial likely to be introduced from the bench later on.
