There may have been kind words before kickoff, but on the pitch, it will be far from kind as Klopp will experience his first clash between the two enemies.
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With regards to the treatment table, at one point, Liverpool had 12 players out of action, half of whom with hamstring injuries, which called into question Klopp’s training methods and demand for a high-pressing game.
Manchester United will be travelling to Anfield this weekend to face their ultimate rivals in what is expected to be a thrilling meeting.
Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has compared one of the city’s most famous sons, John Lennon, with Sir Alex Ferguson – the club’s nemesis for more than 20 years.
The Frenchman hasn’t been a consistent performer in his first season in England, but his pace could cause Liverpool problems-whether from a wide area or central.
“When I started my career I did that [Klopp-like actions] also”.
With Newcastle struggling for goals of late and United seemingly restricted by Van Gaal’s suffocating approach, few would have foreseen their end-to-end match.
The thriller at St. James’ Park might briefly silence the many critics who have been criticizing United’s often ponderous style of play, but that will come as little comfort to under-pressure manager Louis van Gaal, whose side slipped to sixth place in the standings.
The Reds have yet to win a Premier League title since 1990 and yet to win a title in the Premier League era, which began in 1992.
For the first time in 35 years, the league could finish without either United or Liverpool – who have 38 titles between them – in the top four.
It is not a landmark the Liverpool manager is paying too much attention to however. Rodgers’ performance dropped in the following seasons and fans had enough of his methods, which led to him getting sacked this season. With Henderson, Firminho, Milner and Caan there will be plenty of aggression along with skill on display here but the question wil lbe can Liverpool’s defence keep out a rejuvenated Manchester United attack. Can Louis van Gaal cling on to the Red Devils’ hot seat, or will a loss at Anfield prove his undoing? The last match against Arsenal resulted in a 3-3 draw, which was due to some sloppy defending.
Ken Lawrence has a story suggesting Klopp will spark a huge clear out of talent at Liverpool this summer, with sick note striker Daniel Sturridge among those in the firing line. Former captain, Steven Gerrard, will be missed, as he has always inspired the Reds to do well against United.
United won at Anfield courtesy of a Juan Mata double in this fixture last season and have now beaten their fierce rivals in their last three Premier League matches. “We both want to be successful”, the German said.
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Anthony Martial started the season superbly for his new side and scored a great goal on his debut against Liverpool at Old Trafford and would have fond memories of facing the Merseyside outfit.
