Is Man Utd vs Liverpool the biggest game of the season so far?

Old Trafford is set to host one of football’s most fierce rivalries tomorrow, as Manchester United welcome Liverpool in the Premier League, the significance of which cannot be understated.

Title on the line for Liverpool?

Jurgen Klopp’s men come into the game second in the Premier League, behind Manchester City only on goal difference (who have played one game more). Whilst City will be in action in the League Cup final against Chelsea this weekend, this clash gives the Merseysiders a chance to go three points clear at the top of the table once more, and inflict a psychological advantage over City.

However, a loss would deal a significant blow to the belief and confidence of Liverpool, as the rumours are beginning to intensify that they are wilting under the pressure of such a dramatic title race. Their form of late has been rocky, and their often so dangerous front three are failing to fire on all cylinders.

The draw against Bayern Munich in midweek, whilst not a bad result at all, further demonstrated that they are struggling to maintain such aggressive offensive play. Klopp recently claimed that the Premier League is their priority this season, and this game could be the springboard they need to get their charge back on track.

Liverpool have drawn two of their last three Premier League games, which has allowed Man City to pick up a significant grasp on the title race again, and any further points dropped would leave City with a distinctive advantage as we go into the business end of the season.

All rosy for United

Conversely, United are flying under caretaker manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, who continued their wonderful run of form in the recent FA Cup victory over rivals Chelsea. Whilst the league title may go beyond Man Utd’s expectations for the season, their turn around of form under Solskjaer has been nothing short of remarkable and they will go into the clash with Liverpool full of confidence as they look to tighten their grip on a top four position.

Things could soon get even better for the Red Devils, as Jesse Lingard and Anthony Martial may return from injury quicker than expected, to give their forward line a much needed boost. Whilst it remains to be seen if they will be ready for the derby with Liverpool, the victory over Chelsea demonstrated that they are more than capable without the pair.

The clash promises to be a huge affair, with not only local pride at stake, but the result will also have a significant impact on both the Premier League title and the top 4 race. With Chelsea and Man City out of action, and Tottenham suffering a surprise defeat to Burnley, a win for United could see them cement their place in the top 4, whereas a win for Liverpool could be just what they need to go onto lift their debut Premier League title.

Featured Image Credit: “Old Trafford, Manchester” (CC BY 2.0) by Sean MacEntee