Manchester United visit Liverpool on Sunday seeking to end an nine-year Anfield drought, with Ruben Amorim targeting his first back-to-back Premier League victories as manager. The 4:30pm kickoff presents United with an opportunity to capitalise on Liverpool's recent struggles.
Liverpool have suffered three consecutive defeats before the international break, creating defensive vulnerabilities that Amorim hopes to exploit. United haven't won at Anfield since 2016, but the Portuguese manager believes his team performs better as underdogs without expectation pressure.
Tactical approach and team selection
Amorim is expected to stick with Senne Lammens in goal after the Belgian's confident display against Sunderland. The back three of Yoro, De Ligt and Shaw should remain unchanged given their stability in recent matches.
Changes could come in the wing-back positions, with Amad potentially dropping to the bench due to Liverpool's attacking threats. Diogo Dalot may switch from left to his preferred right flank, with Patrick Dorgu filling the opposite side.
Midfield concerns persist
Kobbie Mainoo faces another Premier League absence, having yet to start in the top flight this season. Casemiro is set to partner Bruno Fernandes in midfield, assuming the Brazilian emerges unscathed from his recent international duties.
Paul Scholes has criticised several United players, suggesting Casemiro, Shaw and Maguire lack the physical attributes for Premier League pace. The front three is likely to feature Bryan Mbeumo and Benjamin Sesko alongside Mason Mount.
Liverpool's defensive worries
Liverpool will be without goalkeeper Alisson Becker due to a hamstring injury, with the Brazilian not expected back until November. This absence adds to Liverpool's defensive concerns following their recent poor run of form.
Amorim plans to utilise Lammens' long distribution to Benjamin Sesko as a direct approach against Liverpool's pressing game. The strategy represents a tactical shift designed to bypass Liverpool's midfield intensity.
Sources used: "Manchester Evening News", "Metro", "Liverpool Echo"
Note: This article has been edited with the help of Artificial Intelligence.
