Liverpool v Manchester United Preview (October 15 2011)

This weekend’s Liverpool v Manchester United showdown might not be the key rivalry we have been accustomed to over the years as the power gap between the two clubs has widened, but as the Premier League’s two most successful clubs they still stand as stern rivals who continue to view this as one of the biggest matches on their calendar year after year.

Steven Gerrard is set to make his first start of the season in the North-West showdown

Liverpool v Manchester United

Liverpool Team News & Stats

Liverpool looked to be on the brink of disaster following their back to back losses to Stoke and Tottenham but the Reds have worked hard to not re-awaken memories of last season when the club spent ample time near the relegation zone. Wins over Brighton in the Carling Cup and Wolves in the Premier League set up an interesting clash with local Merseyside rivals Everton, and thanks to an early red card they were able to prevail there as well. It’s not to say that Liverpool is fully back in the flow of things, but with the expected first start of Gerrard this weekend, Manchester United will be in for a tough match. Liverpool have historically had United’s number play at Anfield, including a key 3-1 win last season but they will be eager to get the win on Saturday to finally climb back in the top 4.

Manchester United Team News & Stats

Manchester United will be hoping to keep their strong play going after a lengthy international break. They were facing a host of injuries prior to the pause in Premier League action, which led to draws against Stoke and Basel in the Champions League. Some Red Devils made the headlines during their play for their national teams including Rooney who received an irresponsible red card that will keep him out of some of the group games during Euro 2012, and Vidic who decided to retire from international football after missing a penalty for Serbia that would have allowed them to qualify for the playoffs. Both will be hoping to use this huge match in Liverpool as a medium to release their frustrations. Dalglish and Ferguson have been known to go at each other and Dalglish made sure to get in Sir Alex’s head when he claimed this North-West clash is not the biggest game of the season for Liverpool (which casual observers would have a hard time agreeing with).

Liverpool v Manchester United Betting Odds / Tips and Prediction:

For those looking to bet on Liverpool v Manchester United, odds are as follows. Liverpool to beat Man U odds is priced at 2/1, the draw is given 9/4 while Manchester United to beat Liverpool is valued at 7/5. Liverpool have won the last 3 matches against Man United at Anfield and with Gerrard returning to the lineup they will surely be fired up. We would think this would lead Liverpool to earn the draw – and you can bet on that outcome at 9/4 on Bet365.

Let us know your thoughts if you plan to tune in on October 15 to watch Liverpool v Man United live at 11:45 GMT – what is your Manchester United v Liverpool score prediction?