This Sunday sees another instalment of the North West derby as Manchester United take on Liverpool. Erik ten Hag’s side are on the back of a disappointing defeat at Brighton. A last-minute lapse of concentration led to Joao Pedro scoring the winner with acres of space.
Arne Slot’s Liverpool head into the clash in good form. With two wins from two and yet to concede a goal, they will aim to keep their 100% record intact. Curtis Jones is the side’s only doubt for Sunday. They have recently announced the signing of Italian winger Federico Chiesa. The Euro 2020 winner could be in line to feature on Sunday.
Team news
Long-term injuries to Leny Yoro, Tyrell Malacia, Luke Shaw and Rasmus Hojlund are expected to keep them out of action this weekend.
There is hope that Shaw will be fit in time for the next fixture which comes after the international break. The next fixture is a visit to his former club, Southampton on September 14th.
Scott McTominay is expected to finalise his move to Napoli before the deadline on Friday night. The Scottish midfielder scored in the FA Cup win over Liverpool in March of this year.
Mason Mount was substituted at the interval in the defeat to Brighton and has since been ruled out. The English midfielder is expected to miss the next four to five weeks after a minor muscle issue worsened.
Previous encounters
There is a sense that anything could happen when thinking about Sunday’s showdown. Despite losing last week, many would argue there were positives to take. Had Joshua Zirkzee’s knee not touched the ball ten Hag could have two wins to his name.
The 20-time and 19-time champions met on three occasions last season, only once was there a winner. Amad Diallo’s dramatic extra-time goal in March proved to be the only fixture with one taking home bragging rights.
In April, the sides met at Old Trafford when the game ended 2-2. Two fantastic goals came from Bruno Fernandes and Kobbie Mainoo although it was not enough for three points.
The other draw came last December at Anfield where it ended in a goalless stalemate. Liverpool recorded 34 shots on Andre Onana’s goal but failed to find the net.
Manchester United will hope to feature Manuel Ugarte in some capacity as he closes on his move. The Uruguayan has reportedly completed his medical and could be in line to feature on Sunday.
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