Prediction: Liverpool vs Manchester United

27th January 2012

FA Cup 4th round draw has served as with a real treat as it doesn’t get much better than the clash between arch rivals Liverpool and Manchester United. Both sides enter the game in good spirits and that should guarantee us an exciting game of football at Anfield.

Few weeks ago it seemed that Liverpool had finally stabilized their form and that they would be able to mount a serious top 4 challenge, but the Reds suffered several unexpected slip ups in the Premiership of late and now sit six points adrift of fourth-placed Chelsea. Meanwhile, Kenny Dalglish’s side eased off to the FA Cup fourth round by beating Oldham Athletic, whereas they impressed to beat Manchester City in the Carling Cup semi-finals, thus coming really close to their first trophy of the season. The absence of Luis Suarez is seriously affecting team’s attacking performance, especially as Andy Carroll can do nothing to shake off the tag of one of the most overpaid players in the history of football, and if it wasn’t for effervescent Craig Bellamy, there would be no one in the side capable of breaking the opposition defences. Following the difficult Carling Cup game against Manchester City and with the must-win game against Wolves in mind, Kenny Dalglish is likely to rest several star players against United, which should damage the Reds’ chances in this match.

Manchester United had the misfortune of facing their bitter rivals Manchester City and Liverpool at the start of the FA Cup campaign, but that could prove to be a blessing in disguise as the Red Devils could have knocked out two rivals for the trophy even before things get serious. Fergie’s men recovered well from the Premier League defeats to Blackburn and Newcastle to beat Manchester City in the FA Cup 3rd round derby, whereas they kept the rich vein of form by beating Bolton and Arsenal in the Premiership. Sir Alex Ferguson is now determined to keep the spirits high before the crucial games in the second part of the season and the only way to do so is with a good performance at Anfield. With home game against Stoke next on agenda, Fergie is expected to field a very strong side in Liverpool, especially as his players haven’t played too many games of late. Phil Jones remains a doubt with a twisted ankle, but Rio Ferdinand could return.

Conclusion

Liverpool might find it hard to give their best in this match following the very demanding game against Manchester City, whereas Manchester United have no such problems and they are expected to go for a win here. We are likely to see a tight game, nonetheless, but the Red Devils appear to be closer to victory.

Verdict: Manchester United Draw No Bet

Best Odds: 21/20

Bookmaker: William Hill