The Premier League is set to get back underway this weekend following a string of exciting International fixtures. Liverpool vs Manchester United will arguably the biggest match of matchday 8, as the Red Devils travel to Anfield, looking to continue their bright start to the season.
Over the years, the clash between Manchester United and Liverpool has produced some of the most epic games in the Premier League history. In fact, this historic encounter between two of the Premier League’s giants is arguably the greatest rivalry in English football.
Manchester United will be the clear favourites ahead of their clash against Liverpool. Although the Reds have the home advantage, Jose Mourinho’s men are on an eccentric run of form this season. The Red Devils are level on points with league leaders Manchester City but fall second due to their inferior goal difference. United have conceded only two goals so far, which is enough to drive fear among the Liverpool attackers.
Liverpool on the other hand, are on the back of a terrible September, where they’ve managed to scrap only one victory in seven outings all competitions. The win came against a struggling Leicester City, which is enough to suggest that the Reds are struggling with form this season.
Currently sitting at seventh in the league table, Liverpool desperately needs a win in order to stay in the race for Europe next season. The Merseysiders will look to take advantage from Arsenal’s game against Watford to stay clear of the Gunners with a win at Anfield.
As for Manchester United, they too need to clinch a victory against their fierce rivals if they are to keep up with high flying Manchester City at the top of the table. Following a series of games against low-tier opponents, this will be the first real test for Jose Mourinho’s men this season.
Team News
The International break has struck hard once again in the face of Liverpool. Star winger Sadio Mane has suffered an injury which might keep him out on the sidelines for six weeks. Replacing the Senegalese International will be tough. Both Philipe Coutinho and Roberto Firmino will be coming back after a 6000-mile journey from Brazil but are expected to feature in the starting lineup.
Adam Lallana is slowly recovering from his injury and will be in contention in mid-November. While Nathaniel Clyne is also unavailable for the clash due to his injury.
As for Manchester United, they too suffered a huge blow during the International break as Marouane Fellaini has been ruled out of contention due to his injury. Michael Carrick is also expected to miss the clash through calf trouble. While star midfielder Paul Pogba hasn’t featured since the win over Basel, the Frenchman is also unavailable for selection this weekend.
Center Back Phil Jones is doubtful for the game but is expected to be fit before the clash to start alongside Eric Bailly in central defence. While, Romelu Lukaku has recovered from his niggle, and featured in the thumping of Cyprus on Tuesday. His availability will be a gigantic boost for the visitors.
Predicted Lineups
Liverpool(4-3-3 formation): Simon Mignolet; Trent-Alexander Arnold, Joel Matip, Dejan Lovren, Alberto Moreno; Emre Can, Jordan Henderson, Alex-Oxlade Chamberlain; Mohamed Salah, Roberto Firmino, Philipe Coutinho.
Manchester United(4-2-3-1 formation): David De Gea; Antonio Valencia, Phil Jones, Eric Bailly, Ashley Young; Ander Herrera, Nemanja Matic; Juan Mata, Henrikh Mkhitaryan, Anthony Martial; Romelu Lukaku.
Prediction
Liverpool 1-2 Manchester United
Betting Odds:
Liverpool: 9/5
Draw: 9/4
Manchester United: 9/5
