Our first derby of the season sees us pit up against Liverpool away at Anfield. For me, despite Manchester City’s emergence as a title contender, this is still our biggest fixture of the season.
Anfield has been a difficult place for us to come to in recent seasons despite Liverpool’s struggling league form in the past few years. We have failed to win at Anfield in our last 5 visits, recording only 1 point in that period. There’s no doubt that Liverpool will once again be up for it in their ‘cup final’ so we will have to play to our ability
Expected XI: De Gea, Rafael, Ferdinand, Vidic, Evra, Valencia, Carrick, Scholes, Nani, Kagawa, Van Persie.
In terms of player availability it’s pretty much the same as the last game. Ashley Young, Phil Jones and Chris Smalling are still ruled out. Wayne Rooney has been ruled out for a return this weekend by the manager Sir Alex Ferguson in his pre-game press conference however it wouldn’t surprise me if he makes a surprise return to the bench. Having played and excelled midweek against Galatasaray, I’d expect David De Gea to retain his place in net.
The opponent: Liverpool
Liverpool currently lie 18th in the Premier League having only recorded 2 points from their 4 games so far this season. It’s quite apparent that they are currently in a poor run of form . Their previous game ended in a 5-3 victory over Swiss side Young Boys though Liverpool did not field their strongest XI that day.
Kick off 13:00BST Sunday 23rd September 2012.
Watch Liverpool vs Manchester United promo here
