Today will probably see the most anticipated match of this weekend - "Liverpool" against "Manchester United". Ahead of this match, Telegraph and Alan Smith have selected predicted line-ups for both teams and evaluated each player's abilities, form, and performances in recent matches. Find out who this English specialist predicts will have the advantage in each position in this article.
Goalkeepers:
"Liverpool":
Simon Mignolet. Jurgen Klopp says he is satisfied with him as a player, but there is increasing talk that "Liverpool" needs to strengthen this position. He has good reflexes, but poor catching of high balls can unsettle his teammates. 7
"Manchester United":
David de Gea. Maintained a very high level of play even when most of his teammates were playing poorly. Has always had excellent skills, but now stands out for his influence while in goal. 9
"Liverpool" 7 - 9 "Manchester United"
Defenders:
"Liverpool":
Nathaniel Clyne. A very good athlete who can run forward and back all day. Sometimes his nervousness affects his game, but the right-back is getting better at his defensive duties. 7
Kolo Toure. Excellent against "Stoke" and unreliable against "Arsenal". This experienced center-back is often punished when his ability to maintain the proper position is tested. However, he always fights until the end. 6
Mamadou Sakho. A well-built player who eagerly engages in personal duels. He often attacks the ball more than defending by retreating. However, his shortcomings are evident when he chaotically controls the ball. 7
Alberto Moreno. A player who loves to compete and enjoys joining the attack. If given the chance to shoot, he shoots and does it very well. After a few questionable performances, it seems like he is getting back into his role. 8
"Manchester United":
Ashley Young. Recently, he has been one of the best "United" players. He often takes the initiative in the right-back position. As expected, he delivers good crosses into the box from attacking positions. 7
Chris Smalling. Undoubtedly the best "United" defender this season, outperforming other players in this position by a large margin. He now leads the game more and trusts his abilities much more. Fast and strong in the air. 9
Daley Blind. His good understanding of football helped him survive playing as a center-back. Good positional play allows him to compensate for his lack of height and speed. 7
Matteo Darmian. Although his debut season has been challenging, the Italian has established himself in the team, whether he is placed on the left or right. Plays with a lot of energy and likes to push forward. 6
"Liverpool" 7 - 7.25 "Manchester United"
Midfielders:
"Liverpool":
Jordan Henderson. His breakthroughs, passes, and leadership qualities often change the outcome of matches. After showing all his abilities in the match against "Arsenal", he will probably be a key player in this intense derby. 9
Emre Can. Perhaps one of the most improved "Liverpool" players this season. Smoothly covers his area by moving at a fast pace, and his passes over 20 meters are simply amazing. 9
James Milner. This tireless and relentless fighter is useful to any coach. He tactically executes tasks intellectually, making him always valuable in such games. 7
"Manchester United":
Morgan Schneiderlin. Likely instructed to maintain his position and not wander around the field. As a result, he provides excellent protection for the defensive quartet, even without demonstrating the same game he showed at the "Southampton" club. 7
Marouane Fellaini. He still seems to struggle to find his place in the "United" team. It doesn't help that he is allowed to play in a defensive midfielder position. He does much better in an attacking player role. 5
Juan Mata. Van Gaal's favorite brings variety to the game with his passes into open spaces. Last year's match at "Anfield" stadium, where "United" won, still remains his highest point of form. 7
"Liverpool" 8.33 - 6.33 "Manchester United"
Attackers:
"Liverpool":
Roberto Firmino. Those two fantastic goals against the "Arsenal" team should further boost his confidence. Playing without Phillippe Coutinho, he performed the "false 9" role excellently for the team. It's time for the Brazilian to add stability. 8
Christian Benteke. Klopp doesn't seem to be his biggest fan. But in matches where creating long attacks can be difficult, the striker's strength and ability to play in the air can open up paths forward. 7
Adam Lallana. Good movement and dribbling skills make him dangerous. However, he still needs to do more work near the opponent's goal. He has not scored in the "Premier League" and rarely plays until the end of matches. 7
"Manchester United":
Jesse Lingard. Showed lively play against "Newcastle" and scored a goal. Adds speed and enthusiasm on one of the flanks. It would be surprising if he lost his place in the starting lineup. 6
Anthony Martial. Initially, his price made people wonder, but now he looks like a good purchase. Usually makes good decisions and is a natural goal scorer. At just 20 years old, he has a lot ahead of him. 9
Wayne Rooney. In the match against "Newcastle", he looked like the player we saw years ago. Partly thanks to the "United" tactics, where the ball was distributed forward quickly, and the team prepared fast counterattacks. He always plays with a greater determination against "Liverpool". 8
"Liverpool" 7.33 - 7.67 "Manchester United"
The match between "Liverpool" and "Manchester United" is today at 16:05.
