Struggling Manchester United face uphill task against league leaders Liverpool
What's the story
Former champions Manchester United would be up for a daunting task as they face rivals and reigning league leaders Liverpool in the Premier League at Old Trafford on Sunday. While Liverpool are currently unbeaten in the league, United have managed to grab just nine points from eight games, with only two wins. Meanwhile, we present the match preview for this thrilling encounter.
Current scenario
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer in focus as Liverpool look unbeatable
While the match itself is big and eye-grabbing, most of the focus is likely to be on United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, whose job is on the line. Failure to come up with a win might see him getting sacked. Meanwhile, Jurgen Klopp and his men have been relentless this season as they look unbeatable at the moment.
United news
United in crisis following multiple injuries
As far as United are concerned, they are in crisis mode, especially following multiple injuries. With the likes of Paul Pogba and David de Gea being ruled out, Anthony Martial and Jesse Lingard too are doubtful. Consequently, the onus would be upon Marcus Rashford, along with Daniel James, Scott McTominay, Juan Mata and others, if United seriously want to tame Liverpool.
Liverpool news
Things looking good for Liverpool, courtesy their ruthless form
As for Liverpool, they have undoubtedly been ruthless this season. While their goal-scoring streak might not be as ruthless as Manchester City, their winning streak certainly is. Furthermore, they hardly have any injury concerns, apart from Nathaniel Clyne. While Joël Matip and Xherdan Shaqiri are doubtful starters as well, the side has its prime goal-scorers stacked and ready to get going.
Data
United have enjoyed advantage over Liverpool in the past
As for the head-to-head stats, United have historically fared well against Liverpool, having scripted 88 wins and 66 draws from 230 matches they have played to date. As for the EPL, they have played 54 matches, with United winning on 28 occasions and losing 14.
Opta stats
Some interesting pre-match stats
Following are some of the pre-match stats from Opta: United are unbeaten in their last five home meetings against Liverpool. United have had the most penalties against Liverpool than any other side in EPL history (10). It's also the most faced by Liverpool in the tournament. A win against United would award Liverpool with most consecutive English top-flight wins (18) equalling City (2017).
Predicted starting XI
Here is the predicted starting XI
United (4-2-3-1): Sergio Romero, Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Victor Lindelöf, Harry Maguire, Ashley Young; Scott McTominay, Fred, Marcus Rashford, Juan Mata, Daniel James, Anthony Martial. Liverpool (4-3-3): Adrián, Trent Alexander-Arnold, Joël Matip, Virgil van Dijk, Andrew Robertson, Fabinho, Jordan Henderson, Georginio Wijnaldum; Mohamed Salah, Sadio Mane, Roberto Firmino. Dream XI: Adrián, Robertson, Alexander-Arnold, Lindelöf, Wan-Bissaka, Salah, Mane, McTominay, James, Firmino, Rashford.
Match details
When, where and how to watch?
Match: Manchester United vs Liverpool (EPL) Venue: Old Trafford, Manchester. Time: 9:00 PM IST. Where to watch (TV): Star Sports Select 1 and other regional languages channels of Star Sports (also available in HD). Where to watch (Online): Hotstar.