United v Liverpool - Preview

Old Trafford is the place when Premier League leaders Manchester United go head-to-head with deadly rivals Liverpool on Saturday.

United currently hold a seven-point advantage over both Liverpool and second-placed Chelsea ahead of the weekend action and a win on Saturday would almost certainly ensure a third straight title.

Sir Alex Ferguson's squad is showing unrivalled strength in depth, with only Gary Neville, Wes Brown and Rafael da Silva currently sidelined by injury.

Both Rio Ferdinand and John O'Shea shrugged off knocks to feature in the midweek Champions League win against Internazionale, with United's defence, rather than their much-vaunted attack, having been the bedrock of their success this term.

Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic have formed a superb partnership in central defence, affording a degree of protection to veteran goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar which recently saw him keep 14 consecutive league clean sheets.

Up front Ferguson has an embarrassment of riches, being able to select from the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo, Wayne Rooney, Dimitar Berbatov and Carlos Tevez.

However, Liverpool will arrive at Old Trafford on the crest of a wave following their 4-0 Champions League thrashing of Real Madrid.

Boss Rafa Benitez eschewed his habitual caution to go for the jugular and his side responded with a total demolition of the Spanish champions.

The Spaniard said after that stunning win: "We have an important game next, but we have played well, scored four goals and are very confident. That is the best way to prepare for such a game.

"It was important for us to play that well, but we are now facing a very good team and we must win to close the gap at the top.

"We have a few days to enjoy this result and make sure we are positive and prepared properly for the game at Old Trafford."

Fernando Torres played and scored in midweek, despite needing a pain-killing injection on an ankle injury and the visitors will be praying that he is fit enough to face United at the weekend.

Earlier this season Liverpool edged a 2-1 win over United at Anfield, but their last three league visits to Old Trafford have ended in three defeats and no goals scored.

Fixture: Manchester United v Liverpool
Competition: Barclays Premier league
Venue: Old Trafford, Manchester
Time:12.45 UK 18.15 IST
Channel: ESPN India

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