Start Divock Origi? Daniel Sturridge? or Firmino? Should Strength and Pace favour Quality up front?
Daniel Sturridge has returned to Liverpool’s squad after another injury hit campaign, but again he has often scored goals proving yet again why he is so crucial to Liverpool. Divock Origi who was in sublime form in December has again found himself not nailing down a first team starting place due to his recent dip in form.
Considering the injury concerns, despite the quality given in a game like this, it best Daniel Sturridge comes off the bench causing problems at the back in the final 30 odd minutes. Fatigue too is a concern as Liverpool have already played 3 games in the space of 12 days. Liverpool needs to start at their pace and not allow United to take charge of the game. Origi could be a handful against the likes of Chris Smalling, Phil Jones and Daley Blind, who has been immense for Manchester United at the back this season.
Should Firmino play as Number 9? He could, but not this game. Firmino could have played a Number 9 if Mane was available but due to his work-rate and quality Firmino could be suited to play off the striker in the hole with Coutinho and Lallana alongside him. He offers work-rate and could be a constant threat to the likes of Micheal Carrick and Ander Herrera, either one who starts the game. It would be tactically a good option if Sturridge comes off the bench allowing Origi to start and offer Liverpool a presence up front initially.
Teams Expected
Manchester United Have a stronger Bench and have a variety of players they could add to their team or bench like Ashley Young, Memphis Depay and Wayne Rooney who is always a big game player and relishes the prospect of playing against Liverpool.
The Most Important Player for Liverpool: – Hands down has to be Philippe Coutinho, the Brazilian has had a fine start to the campaign but injury in late November robbed him and Liverpool of their fluidity and goals. He would be wanting to play to his potential against United and if there is anyone on that pitch to get the better of an unbeatable De Gea, it’s Philippe Coutinho. Liverpool will need him to be at his best.
Most Important Player for United: – Paul Pogba, the Frenchman is showing signs of nearing his best which is never going to be good news for his opponent. Pogba has added goals assists and has played a part in United’s build-up towards their goals in recent times. It could be a fantastic contest in the making.
Klopp has a great record against Mourinho and will hope to keep that record intact, though last season Klopp’s Liverpool got a draw against United in the Europa league, he will hope to do one better over his fiercest rivals and Jose Mourinho alike.
This game is a Virtual 9 pointer for Liverpool, not only will it keep them at pace with Chelsea but also boost their chances going ahead in crucial games with a winning mentality also making it difficult for United to get into the Top four which could be a huge blow for Mourinho and United alike. A win over Manchester United at Old Trafford isn’t something that often happens but this could just be the spring Liverpool need to get the wind up their sails again to push for glory. As long as United are concerned they too will come out and play football unlike the last game at Anfield where they were focusing on nullifying the threat of the front four.
If Liverpool can score an early goal against the odds and especially against David De Gea we could be in for an exciting prospect. Mourinho’s teams does better when they are in the lead, but they often are found wanting when they have to chase the game and despite being second in the Premier League table, Liverpool will enter this game as underdogs which make this game a blockbuster, hopefully it doesn’t turn out to be another gun that fires blanks.
