Manchester United host bitter rivals Liverpool at Old Trafford on Saturday, hoping to bounce back after a shock defeat to Swansea before the international break. In fact, both sides saw their unbeaten starts to the new Premier League season come to an end before the international break. It was a humbling, defeat for Brendan Rodgers’s side against West Ham following a steady, if unspectacular start to the new season. Philippe Coutinho’s suspension will be another worry for Rodgers going into such a high profile contest. Although he will pleased to see that most of his summer signings have smoothly settled into the Liverpool setup, but he knows that his team needs to improve in the final third if they are to have any chance of winning any silverware this year.
Here is how Liverpool might line-up against Manchester United
Simon Mignolet
Though Liverpool conceded three goals against West Ham, Mignolet didn’t have bad game between the sticks. He has been in good form this season, keeping three clean sheets before coming up against West Ham. He will need to be on top form to keep out the likes of Rooney, Deepay etc.
Nathaniel Clyne
Clyne has been in top form after his summer move from Southampton and has added solidity to the Liverpool backline. After a disappointing performance against West Ham, he would want things to return to normality.
Joseph Gomez
The eighteen year old defender has been impressive over the last month. The former Charlton Athletic player struggled to cope against West Ham in the last match and was withdrawn as Liverpool searched for goals.
Martin Skrtel
Skrtel is an effective, no-nonsense brute in the Liverpool defensive line. His performances this season have drawn appreciation from all corners and he will be looking to continue the good form.
Dejan Lovren
Though he had a horrendous game against West Ham, committing far too many mistakes, Lovren has definitely improved after struggling for most of the last campaign. After receiving a lot of criticism from fans last season, Lovren knows he is skating on thin ice this time around.
Emre Can
Can works very hard in the middle of the pitch to protect his back but was caught in possession a number of times against West Ham.
Lucas Leiva
With Jorden Henderson set to continue his spell on the sidelines, Leiva looks set to continue in the midfield. He has been criticized by the pundits for being too slow while defending, will make way for Henderson once he is fit.
James Milner
He has been Liverpool’s player of the season so far, had a good game against West Ham when all his teammates were looking weak. His place in the team looks assured.
Ibe
With Coutinho suspended after receiving a red card against West Ham, Ibe will take his place in the starting eleven. He will need to perform at his maximum potential, if he wants to keep his place in the coming weeks.
Roberto Firmino
Got his first start at Anfield against West Ham, still doesn’t look completely comfortable after his move to Liverpool. Needs to justify the huge price tag with solid performances.
Christian Benteke
Christian Benteke will once again start up front as the lone striker. Daniel Sturridge was expected to possibly return to the side for this game, though now it seems highly unlikely that he will be back on time.
