Man Utd take on Liverpool in the Premier League on Sunday and here’s how our writers think they should line up.
United take on Liverpool this afternoon.(Image: Getty Images)
Manchester United take on Liverpool in the Premier League this afternoon.
United recorded a much-needed 2-0 victory against Sunderland at Old Trafford before the international break and will try to build on that result when they visit Anfield.
Ruben Amorim has not won back-to-back league games since his appointment in November. Liverpool are licking their wounds after defeats to Crystal Palace, Galatasaray and Chelsea, but they are still the bookmakers’ favourites to return from the international break with a home victory.
Regarding the team news, Noussair Mazraoui is a doubt, while Lisandro Martinez remains sidelined.
Here’s how our writers think United should line up at Anfield:
Steven Railston
Casemiro played the full 90 minutes against South Korea and Japan during the international break, so Brazil manager Carlo Ancelotti will not be on Amorim’s Christmas card list.
Manuel Ugarte was not included in the Uruguay squad and he is fresh in comparison. Amorim hinted that Casemiro could be rested during his press conference, but he should start if he is physically ready to play. Ugarte has been disappointing, albeit he did emerge with credit from the first half against Manchester City.
I prefer Harry Maguire on the left side of the back-three, while I would also bring Patrick Dorgu into the side at the expense of Amad. Liverpool have superb attacking quality and starting ‘defenders’ at wing-back is logical.
The attacking line picks itself. Mason Mount was excellent against Sunderland before the international break, and his work rate will be important at Anfield, so he should retain his role.
Steven’s team
Jack Flintham
I would welcome the addition of Maguire to the starting line-up at Anfield ahead of Luke Shaw. Maguire is a reliable defender and United need stability.
Moving into midfield, I am eager to see Kobbie Mainoo reintroduced to the side alongside Casemiro. In an attempt to fit Bruno Fernandes into the starting line-up, I would move him into the No.10 role which suits the team better than when he is deeper in the line-up.
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That would mean that Bryan Mbeumo is dropped from the starting XI and while that is very harsh, his impact off the bench could work wonders on Sunday. Mount just has to start after his performance against Sunderland.
There is a little choice but to pick Benjamin Sesko to lead the line for United. Hopefully he can add to his two in two games run.
Jack’s team
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