Manchester United vs Liverpool – English Premier League – Preview

Posted on September 12, 2015 by Sreya

Manchester United host Liverpool at the Old Trafford on Saturday in the most anticipated English Premier League fixture of the weekend. Manchester United were invigorated with David De Gea signing a new four-year deal and tomorrow’s test would be crucial for the club’s title chances.

Both clubs are on seven points after the first four league matches, having won two and lost one of their games. The clubs have been pegged to be embroiled in a fierce battle for the UEFA Champions League spots, come next May and this particular encounter could play a significant role on that aspect.

Team News

David de Gea could make his first start of the season after the Spaniard penned down a new contract earlier today. Phil Jones and Andreas Pereira are the only absentees through injury for Louis van Gaal’s side. The outfield players are likely to remain unchanged from the previous game, with Wayne Rooney coming off a superb international break, when he became England’s highest ever goalscorer. The duo of Bastian Schweinsteiger and Morgan Schneiderlin will continue as deep midfielders with Juan Mata, Ander Herrera and Memphis Depay ahead of them.

Brendan Rodgers does not have his first choice eleven at his disposal with Jon Flanagan and Joe Allen injured, and Philippe Coutinho suspended. Daniel Sturridge was rumoured to make his return from a lengthy injury spell in this particular fixture, but his inclusion in the matchday squad seems unlikely at the moment. The Liverpool manager is hoping Adam Lallana and Jordan Henderson pass their late fitness tests, otherwise the Merseyside club might have to field a second-string midfield in Manchester.

Manchester United Possible Starting XI (4-2-3-1): David de Gea, Matteo Darmian, Chris Smalling, Daley Blind, Luke Shaw, Morgan Schneiderlin, Bastian Schweinsteiger, Juan Mata, Ander Herrera, Memphis Depay, Wayne Rooney.

Liverpool Possible Startng XI (4-3-3): Simon Mignolet, Nathaniel Clyne, Martin Skrtel, Dejan Lovren, Joseph Gomez, Emre Can, Lucas Leiva, James Milner, Danny Ings, Christian Benteke, Roberto Firmino.

Contributor’s Pick

According to Head-2-Head statistics, Manchester United have won 40% and lost 34% of its encounters with Liverpool till date. The previous six meetings between these two clubs have all ended in a definite result for either side, with Liverpool winning only twice. The Red Devils have also won eight of their last nine home matches against Liverpool in all competitions. It should be a closely contested affair with both teams playing to win. Manchester United are the favourites to win in a probable 2-1 scoreline.