Despite their lead position on the Premier league table with 19 poinst from 6 wins and a draw, Manchester United are yet to run in to top-flight oppostion in the 2017-18 season. That could happen when they visit Anfield for a vital EPL clash on Saturday this weekend to face Jurgen Klopp’s Liverpool.
Liverpool by contrast have had tough outings, including a 0-5 mauling at the hands of Manchester City earlier in September, which is why they find themselves in the 7th spot with just 12 points. Coach Jurgen Klopp’s men’s performances have vacillated between exhilarating to exasperating. While the attack led by the come-back boy Phillipe Coutinho, Firmino, Sadio Mane and the lighting Mohamad Salah have bedazzled opponents, the defence has left a lot to be desired. The 12 goals they have conceded from their 7 Premier League games so far is the highest among the top half teams. Against the likes of Romelu Lukaku, Marcus Rashford, Anthony Martial and Juan Mata the frail defense will be tested big time.
The prolific Lukaku, who had a injury scare, missing out on his county, Belgium’s WC 2018 qualifier match against Bosnia Herzegovina should be fully fit for the Anfield clash. Marounne Felliani who had to limp out in the 23rd minute of the Bosnia Herzegovina clash with a knee injury could be a doubtful starter for the Liverpool clash. United may miss out on the services of Marcos Rojo and Phil Jones in the defense, both out with long term injuries.
For Liverpool their attacking mainstays, Coutinho and Roberto Firmino will there at Anfiel but will be somewhat weary after Tuesday’s WC 2018 qualifier clash with Chile in faraway Sao Paulo. But a big boost for the Reds attack will be the return of the electrifying Sadio Mane after a three match suspension in early-September. Adam Lallana looks to be out, too, for some time and the problems at Liverpool back look like persisting for some time thanks to Nathaniel Clyne’s long-term back injury. Dejan Loven could return from a minor back injury to stabilize things at the back for the Reds.
All three past encounters between these sides have petered out into draws, but United had won four games on the trot before this phase in the 2014-16 period.
Given Liverpool’s home advantage and a more battle-hardened progress in the current Premier League season so far, the bookm aker’s are wagering on a win for Jurgen Klopp’s men.Manchester United could probably be staring at their first defeat of the 2017-18 season. But Liverpool’s propensity to mess up things could upset such calculations.
Recommended Tip: Man United to WIN, Best Odds 7/4 Betfred
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