The resignation of Fabio Capello and speculation
over the possible England appointment of Harry
Redknapp has helped reduced the spotlight
glare on this tinderbox fixture, but the fixation
on Luis Suarez and Patrice Evra coming face-to-
face for the first time since the racism
allegations will still be unhealthy.
The current vitriol spewed between the fans of
these two clubs is disturbing. Raw emotions
have always chewed away at this game. But both
sets of players and the referee need to be
mindful that the football world is watching on.
The role of Phil Dowd will be crucial.
United have lost just two of their last 15 league
games. Liverpool have suffered only three
defeats in their last 15 matches in all
competitions. It could be very tight.
The home side has scored 16 goals in its last five
home games. Only Manchester City have
conceded fewer league goals than Liverpool.
A cup tie atmosphere will suit Liverpool. They’ve
won seven of eight games in cup competition
this season. United have won seven of the last
eight meetings with their old Merseyside rivals
at Old Trafford but they have to avenge the FA
Cup defeat last month when they played some
good football but gave away soft goals.
Liverpool will be sure to pressurise whoever
plays in the United goal after David de Gea’s
nerves at Anfield. Andy Carroll had one of his
best Liverpool performances that day. Suarez
was brilliant in setting up Dirk Kuyt’s hat-trick
in the Anfield meeting last season. United’s
defence will be up against it.
But so will Liverpool’s. While the cups provide
the focus for their run-in, United really need the
league points. They deserved to win at Chelsea
last weekend. Wayne Rooney is overdue a goal
against Liverpool. But he’ll face Martin Skrtel,
who has been brilliant this season.
Both sides have been inconsistent against top-
seven rivals so far. The result will be hugely
significant – but it’s impossible to predict. Read more at Goal.com
EPL: Man Utd VS Liverpool preview 02/11
