Liverpool will struggle to keep a clean sheet

Last updated: September 9, 2015 by Leon Marshal

Because of their new signing, Anthony Martial, Manchester United will be even more powerful in attack. The French international is coming to Old Trafford for a fee of between £ 36m, and £ 50 m.; depending on his performance on the pitch. Mexican star Javier Hernandez was sold for £ 8 m. to Bayer Leverkusen, but his absence won’t be crucial. The ex Real Madrid player delivered a very poor performance when he took to the field and maybe the decision to sell the Mexican player was taken when Chicharito missed a penalty against Club Brugge in The Champions League Play-offs.

From the beginning of the season The Red Devils have been playing well at home and they are going to continue their good performance at Old Trafford because now they have extra confidence after qualifying for the group stage of the UEFA Champions League. Manchester United have earned 4 points from their first two home matches in The Premiership. Furthermore, they won against Brugge by turning things around after being behind 0-1, to winning 3-1.

On the other hand, Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers hit the transfer market, signing Benteke from Aston Villa, Clyne from Southampton, Ings from Burnley, Milner from Manchester City and Firmino from Hoffenheim. Furthermore, Coutinho was on top form in his last 4 games, showing that he can set up goals for his team. That’s why the team started very well in The Premier League. But the last home match against West Ham showed that Liverpool have serious problems in defense, conceding 3 goals from an unassuming team like The Hammers.

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Team News

United got rid of some players who showed that they don’t deserve to wear the red shirt. Johny Evans being one of them. West Bromwich Albion paid £ 6 m. for the 27-year-old Northern Ireland international. Celtic signed Tyler Blackett on a season-long loan contract.

Wayne Rooney proved that he is still playing at the top level, after scoring a hat-trick in the visit to Club Brugge. Memphis and Juan Mata are also looking like they will be key players for United this season.

The Reds have more problems with injuries than their opponent, as Adam Lallana is doubtful. Allen, Flanagan and Sturridge are also unavailable.

For The Red Devils only Phil Jones is going to miss the game, but he is not a man that can affect the final result.

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Expected line-ups:

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Key Battle

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So far this season

• When we talk about football classic clashes we just have to mention Manchester United against Liverpool. This teams have faced each other 165 times. United have won 66 games. These teams have faced each other 165 times. United have won 66 games. There are 44 draws and 55 wins for The Reds. So, we expect to see a match with many goals, emotions and drama.
• Louis van Gaal’s side lost its last Premier League game (1-2 to Swansea). Liverpool also lost in the last round (0-3 to West Ham United).
• The Red Devils won 3-0 in the last season’s meeting between the teams. Manchester United are in a run of 3 consecutive wins against The Reds.
• Coutinho, who is performing very well from the beginning, is absent due to suspension.

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Head to Head