Liverpool look to maintain their perfect start to the Premier League season when they visit arch-rivals Manchester United on Sunday. Here are the Three Keys to this match. Bet on the game here.
Poor form v Record-breaking run
Manchester United have won just two of their opening eight Premier League games, and three of their last six have ended in defeat. Their 4-0 win over Chelsea on the opening weekend remains the only time they have scored more than once this term, and now they face a Liverpool side on an incredible run of form. This will have a psychological effect as Liverpool are currently high in confidence.
Liverpool on the other hand, are just one win away from equaling the all-time record of 18 consecutive victories in the English top-flight, currently held by Manchester City. They also have a substantial eight-point lead in the title race. Over and above the fact that Jürgen Klopp’s side have not lost a league game since the start of January. They will be going all out for the three points here.
Wingers v Full-backs
This match will largely depend on the performance of the wingers and the full-backs. Liverpool’s creative output has mostly come from the wing through Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mane. They both have a combined tally of nine goals this season and they will bear the responsibility of tormenting United’s backline. The hosts will be relying on Marcus Rashford and Daniel James for goals as the two have a combined tally of six.
The full-back’s brief will be to try and silence the volatile wingers and in the case of Manchester United they will be hoping that Aaron Wan-Bissaka is fit to line up alongside Ashley Young. Wan-Bissaka is just returning from injury whilst Young is not as speedy as he was a few years back and that should be a source of concern for them. Trent Alexander-Arnold and Andrew Robertson will have the corresponding responsibility of stopping United’s wingers and they have been contributing creatively too.
Key Injuries v Returning players
Manchester United have a long injury list of players who might miss out this fixture. Wan-Bissaka, Anthony Martial, James, Paul Pogba, Luke Shaw, Jesse Lingard, and David De Gea are all doubts for this clash, but even at full strength their ability to get a result on Sunday would be under question.
Liverpool are expected to welcome back their first choice goalkeeper Alisson who is returning from injury. Adrian did deputize adequately during his absence but they have not been very solid at the back. The return of Alisson should bring more order in the backline going forward.