Old foes Liverpool and Manchester United battle at The Kop this Sunday. It’s an intriguing game for both the clubs, as we have a tough battle amongst a handful of clubs to secure a place in the Champions League for next season. It’s very critical for every club to win, not lose or draw, the remaining season fixtures as time is running out.
This match preview is from our United writer and emerging journalist Anand Padmanabhan. Go here for analysis of the starting 11 and see the starting XI that he picked.
The Tactical Approach:
The Kop is a tough place for any club to visit and implement their desired style of play as the fans always sustain a lot of support for the Reds. Having wing backs Blind and Rafael run along the flanks could further wingers DiMaria and Young to deliver crosses to the striker from the sides. A quick start here could hold the key in winning. United players having the patience to make accurate passes will be the real test in this critical game. The dead ball situation will also be pivotal.
Liverpool striker Raheem Sterling and attacking midfielder Philippe Coutinho pose real threats for Manchester United defenders and goalkeeper David De Gea. The Red Devils should also hope to block the shots of midfielder Jordan Henderson, who has become goal threat from long range in recent matches.
For the Manchester United starting XI from (@CoolAnand93) Anand Padmanabhan go here to this link
For the Manchester United starting XI from Sports Bank Owner/Editor (@paulmbanks) Paul M. Banks go here to this link
Injury news and Suspensions:
Currently, the only injured player for United is Dutch forward Robin Van Persie (ankle). Energetic striker James Wilson is a doubt to play in the weekend’s game, as he picked up a hamstring injury and went hobbling after scoring in the first half of the under-21 game against Everton on Monday.
Louis van Gaal should give us an answer in his pre-match press conference later today.
The only suspended player for United is Northern Ireland defender Jonny Evans (For the Spat with Newcastle United striker Papiss Cisse, 7 game suspension).
For the hosts, all the players are fit and none are suspended. In addition, experienced midfielder Steven Gerrard as a substitute (like we saw against Swansea) could lift the morale of Liverpool fans. Brazilian Midfielder Lucas Leiva and fullback Jon Flanagan have returned to training after recovering from a groin injury and knee problem respectively.