Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher has named his preferred XI for the crucial clash against Man United next week in a game of huge magnitude as both sides chase a Champions League place.
The two will be involved in arguably the biggest derby clash since the two met in 2009 at Old Trafford as they fought for the Premier League title, a game Liverpool won 4-1.
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Speaking on Monday Night Football, Carragher made some interesting choices for his preferred team against rivals Man United.
GK) Simon Mignolet
The Belgian has completely turned his form around and kept his fifth successive clean sheet away from home against Swansea City on Monday night.
CB) Emre Can
Previously a solid figure at the back, Emre struggled against the power of Bafetimbi Gomis and might be targeted by Louis van Gaal as he aims to make use of Marouane Fellaini’s height.
CB) Martin Skrtel
The heart of Liverpool’s defence, his handling of an in-form Wayne Rooney may decide the encounter.
CB) Mamadou Sakho
Out of the Liverpool back three, Sakho seems to be the one who needs more protection due to his lack of mobility and pace. He will certainly hope the likes of Allen and Moreno offer that protection.
RM) Lazar Markovic
With the return of Daniel Sturridge, Markovic has lost his place with Brendan Rodgers moving Sterling to a right-midfield role – Carragher wants to see him return though.
CM) Jordan Henderson
Liverpool’s current captain fantastic and one of the in-form players in the league will be looking to lead his side to a famous victory.
CM) Joe Allen
Carragher has gone for the Welshman ahead of skipper Steven Gerrard for his energy and more importantly, his performance against Man City a couple of weeks ago.
LM) Alberto Moreno
One of Rodgers’ first name on the team sheet given the fact that he is left-footed and able to operate in both ends of the pitch.
CAM) Adam Lallana
Lallana’s big money move from Southampton is starting to prove dividends and if his performance against the last visitors to Anfield from Manchester is anything to go by, the Englishman could become a match winner in this game.
CAM) Philippe Coutinho
Capable of producing a moment of magic which turns a game on its head, Coutinho seems to love the big occasions at Anfield. Already scored against Man City and Arsenal at home, you wouldn’t back against him getting another.
CF) Raheem Sterling
Another big call from Carragher, but the former defender wants to replicate the performance against Man City in all its aspects, especially the high intensity pressing from the front which Sterling excels in.