Premier League preview: Liverpool v Manchester United

Liverpool could welcome back captain Steven Gerrard to the starting line-up for Saturday’s Premier League clash with Manchester United.

The Reds skipper has spent the past seven months in rehabilitation after aggravating a groin injury in Liverpool’s 3-1 win over United in March.

Gerrard has made three just substitute appearances for Kenny Dalglish’s men this season.

The 31-year-old’s inclusion could come at the expense of England under-21 captain Jordan Henderson.

The Anfield favourite’s possible return to the starting XI on Saturday would be another boost to a rejuvenated Merseysiders side aiming to reinstate their spot in the Premier League’s ‘Big Four’ this season.

Currently fifth on the league table, Dalglish’s side have their biggest test this season in the form of a United side that is relentless on results.

Recent history falls in favour of Liverpool, though, as they have won their past four home clashes against United – a stat that would no doubt irk Sir Alex Ferguson as they strive to defend their Premiership.

United have a number of injury concerns – Darren Gibson, Tom Cleverley and Rafael – but influential centre-back Nemanja Vidic could return after nearly two months out, as he represented his native Serbia for 90 minutes in their Euro 2012 qualifier in midweek on his return from a calf injury.

Liverpool have just one concern from the medical room, with Daniel Agger the only unavailable player, as Glen Johnson has recovered from a hamstring complaint.

Dirk Kuyt scored a hat-trick the last time the two sides met in their 3-1 triumph at Anfield.

Manchester United won their three previous battles, but their last triumph in Liverpool came in December 2007, when Carlos Tevez – now with bitter rivals Manchester City – scored the game’s only goal.