Liverpool vs. Manchester United Line-up comparison
Goalkeepers
Simon Mignolet vs David De Gea
Both keepers have their own set of flair moments and hiccups. Both are similar reflex based goalkeepers, while Mignolet is pretty much in his prime in comparison to young talent De Gea. Both goalkeepers currently are having similar capacity to perform, though the Spaniard edges the Belgian slightly on future potential especially as he was one of Man Utd’s best players in a dismal season last time out.
Defence
Right Backs: Jon Flanagan vs Rafael
Flanagan impressed heavily in the left back spot and is expected to edge Glen Johnson to the Right Back position sometime during the season if not immediately. A better defender than Johnson, Flanagan is aggressive and fast, and would have the opportunity to provide some more attacking threat while playing his favoured position. Rafael on the other hand has been a good regular for United. He had an average season last time out and was not selected for the World Cup squad of Brazil. Rafael on his day can be a top attacker and a defender, but his inconsistency, especially last season, has let him down many times. Just because of Flanagan’s recent consistency and Rodgers’ handling of him, the Liverpool man edges Rafael marginally.
Centre Backs: Martin Skrtel vs Phil Jones
While Phil Jones has been doing well for Man United’s torn defence, Skrtel has been immensely contributing in offence especially through set-piece attacking. The Slovakian scored 7 goals last season, but also notched up 4 own goals. Jones is expected to rise to the top this season with the amount of potential he has along with the versatility, but the Liverpool Centre Back wins this contest for his maverick performances last season.
Centre Backs: Mamadou Sakho vs Stephan De Vrij (Possible)
Sakho has had an injury hit first season at Liverpool but the Frenchman is a rock solid centre back. His long absence was one reason Liverpool conceded a lot of goals, but he is well utilised when he is played deep. Doesn’t waste time on the ball, he always passes it quickly to Gerrard. De Vrij is a rumoured target for Man Utd, but he was not someone United want ideally. United need defenders who can ably fit the place vacated by Vidic and if this transfer happens, we do know De Vrij has a long way to go. And as for Sakho vs Him, again the Liverpool defender wins because he proved his talent in the Premier League with those nonchalant aerial duels and tackling.
Left Back: Jose Enrique vs Luke Shaw
Enrique missed a huge part of last season to injury and could have made a huge difference to the squad last time out as Glen Johnson created a lot of worry at Right Back while his deputy Flanagan played Left Back in Enrique’s position. This season Enrique could help Liverpool in their quest for solidity. Shaw on the other hand is faster, younger and costlier and comes with the potential of becoming a superstar. Shaw was among the best defenders last season and played a key role in Southampton’s good performance last time. Shaw edges Liverpool’s Enrique based on raw talent in comparison to Enrique’s PL experience.
Clink “Next”>>>>> to continue
Comments are closed.