Liverpool and Manchester United, the two most successful clubs in the history of English football, will battle on Sunday for top spot in the world’s biggest league – the English Premier League.
Dean Boyle previews the much-anticipated clash.
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The match promises to be a tantalising clash pitting the Reds from Anfield against the Red Devils from Manchester in a top of the log clash to be played on Sunday, 17 January at 18:30 SA time.
With 39 Premier League titles between them (Manchester United lead with 20 while Liverpool have 19), just three points separate the sides at the summit of the log this season.
This will be the most important match between the two teams in recent memory and it’s been several years since the tie was a top of the table clash.
In what has been one of the most tightly contested Premier League seasons ever, this match has history, pride and a vital three points up for grabs over the 90 minutes.
A win for Liverpool will see them go top of the table while a draw or victory for Manchester United will see them stay in pole position.
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So who is the favourite?
Liverpool have made Anfield a fortress in the Premier League, having not lost since April 2017. In contrast, Manchester United haven’t lost an away match this season.
Amazingly, the match pits the two teams with the worst or equal worst defensive record in the top half of the table against one another.
In contrast, they have the best attacking records, amassing 37 (Liverpool) and 34 (Manchester United) goals.
Liverpool have struggled for consistency with injuries to key players such as Virgil van Dijk and Diogo Jota. Their recent form makes for worrisome reading with just two points from their last three fixtures (2 draws and a loss). During that period they have scored one goal, Jurgen Klopp’s worst run in over five years!
Manchester United on the other hand, have won their last three matches and boast five wins and a draw in their last six outings.
On recent form, you’d back the Red Devils, but a Liverpool side with their backs against the wall at Anfield have proven a tough nut to crack for even the world’s greatest sides (Barcelona will remember their 4-0 whitewash all to well) … !
Prediction time.
I’m going for a 2-1 win for Liverpool, but I wouldn’t bet my house on it!
Stay tuned to The South African for the result of the match, plus all the other action from England this weekend.
IN CLOSING | THANKS FOR THE MEMORIES, WAYNE
