Liverpool are expected to return to Wembley Stadium swiftly ahead of their FA Cup quarter-final against Manchester United this weekend.
The Reds travel to Old Trafford on Sunday afternoon with the goal of reaching the competition’s semi-finals and adding to their trophy haul in Jurgen Klopp’s final season as manager.
The game is the latest installment in one of England’s most intense rivalries. It comes just a few weeks before the two sides face off again in the Premier League, in what could be a pivotal match in the title chase and top four competition.
But all eyes are on the FA Cup, as the victors are only one step away from the competition’s final. The semi-final will also be held at Wembley Stadium.
Chris Sutton, a former Premier League striker, has shared his opinions ahead of the two clubs’ latest match. He believes Liverpool will get the better of their rivals this time after a 0-0 draw in the Premier League in December.
“A friend of mine said he thought Manchester United would win this match. “I told him to stop being so stupid,” he told BBC Sport.
“United have dug deep and gotten some fine victories against Liverpool in recent years; for example, they beat them 2-1 at Old Trafford at the start of last season, even though I didn’t give them a chance that day. I know United fans may be thinking back to their 0-0 tie at Anfield earlier this season, when they only had roughly 2% possession.
“But Liverpool are getting key players like Mohamed Salah back to full fitness, and if they turn up and perform like they did in the second half against Manchester City last weekend, they will win without a doubt.” There is some positive news for United: striker Rasmus Hojlund is expected to return from injury and start the game.
“That is massive for them and gives them a far greater chance of getting through, but if Liverpool are anywhere near their best they will still have too much for them.”
Chris Sutton predicts Manchester United will beat Liverpool 1-3.
Fellow pundit Paul Merson agrees with Sutton. The former Arsenal player has identified three players who might be vital for Liverpool in the derby.
“If you’re a Manchester United fan this weekend, you must be patient. There is every potential Erik ten Hag puts ten players behind the ball at home against Liverpool, which illustrates how far the Red Devils have sunk in recent years. It will not be a pleasant viewing for them,” he told SportsKeeda.
“Wataru Endo is a player who has truly pleased me; he has been an excellent signing! Klopp seldom makes a mistake with transfers; I can’t recall looking at one of their purchases over the years and thinking, “damn, he was a major waste of money,” which is a huge tribute to everyone who works behind the scenes.
“The likes of Jarrell Quansah and Conor Bradley have also been completely different classes. Liverpool has good pros at the club, giving it an ideal setting for these young youngsters to join the team and thrive.”
