In really the only match that matters, Liverpool will look to put a pair of disappointing Cup matches behind them when they square up to bitter rivals Manchester United at Old Trafford on Sunday as they look to not only keep Jose Mourinho’s side from gaining ground in the league, but also keep up the pressure on table topping Chelsea.
“We are [approaching] every game differently but he knows what he wants in these kinds of games, the big games,” said Reds defender Dejan Lovren, speaking to the club’s official website. “We have a good talk before the game with him and he doesn’t need to motivate us, but with some kind of words he touches us in the heart,” added the Croatian defender. “In these derbies, you are ready to fight for everything. [Klopp is] a big part of the team, he’s one of the key people here.”
Climbing to a mere five points off of second placed Liverpool, Mourinho’s side have been gathering momentum, winning their last nine matches in all competitions. The Reds, in contrast, have failed to score in two matches on the bounce — against League Two side Plymouth Argyle in the FA Cup and in the narrow loss to Southampton in the first leg of the League Cup semi-final. Not that what came before matters one bit; you’ve heard the one about the form book flying out the window, haven’t you?
“It’s a great game to look forward to. Both sets of fans, obviously our fans, can’t wait for those sorts of games to come around and the players are no different,” said Alberto Moreno when asked about the trip to Old Trafford on Sunday. “We know it’s going to be a tough game, it’s a tough ask to go there and do well, and it’s even more important because we’re both rivals in the upper part of the table, we’re both right up there so it’s even more important than ever,” continued the Spaniard, hinting at United making their way up the table. “Playing in a derby match is great, all players enjoy that and me especially. I love the challenge of derby games and if you can win, it makes it even more extra special, so I can’t wait for it to come around.”
