With several of the last encounters between the sides surrounded by controversy, can Manchester United and Liverpool put on a show that reminds the world why they are the two most successful football clubs in English history?
As it stands, United are on course for a record 20th league title, whilst Liverpool are looking to bounce back from their poor start to the season. The Red Devils prevailed at Anfield in September, securing a 2-1 win with a late penalty from Robin van Persie with the home side having to see out more than half of the game with only 10 men after Jonjo Shelvey was given a red card for a challenge on Jonny Evans. Despite the disadvantage, Steven Gerrard fired them into a second-half lead, but ultimately it was Sir Alex Ferguson’s men who came away with the points.
Liverpool have only got a result at Old Trafford once since 2004, but what a result it was. An incredible 4-1 win for the Reds was completed by Italian defender Andrea Dossena, whose stylish finish drifted over Edwin van der Sar and into the United net, however, apart from that March day in 2009, it has been a long time since Liverpool supporters have had anything to shout about after playing at the home of their arch rivals. Each painful defeat brings back the desire to topple the Red Devils like they did four years ago, which was also the last time they seriously challenged for the title, and although the victory was sweet, Rafael Benitez’s side ultimately ended that season as runners up to a tenacious Manchester United.
They may be a long way from that sort of finish, but Liverpool would love nothing more than to help prevent United claiming the Premier League trophy once again.