Football does not get much better than Manchester United versus Liverpool. Up there with El Clasico as one of the greatest footballing rivalries, the North-West of England will be at loggerheads on Sunday afternoon.

This season is rare, too, in the fact that both clubs are genuinely competing near the top of the Premier League table. The rivalry is more than a historical, local joust this year - it is potentially significant for the top six.

Jurgen Klopp and Jose Mourinho just add to the intensity of this fixture as well. Two men adored by their respective fan bases will lead their teams into this match with no interest in anything other than three points. Mourinho will unquestionably be the cagier of the two, but he will be well aware that he cannot afford to concede any more ground to the top four.

Manchester United’s recent form makes them an even greater threat, however. Klopp must be wary ahead of this game, particularly considering his side’s defensive frailties, and here are THREE things he must consider ahead of the Sunday showdown...

Record-breaking Problems

Paul Pogba will continue to have his critics, but the world record summer signing for Manchester United has lived up to the billing of late. His performances have controlled the game, created chances and enabled Jose Mourinho to balance his midfield. Aided by the excellence of Juan Mata and Henrikh Mkhitaryan, Pogba is the player Liverpool must stop.

Whether this goes as far as to man mark him in possession or to force him to carry the ball more regularly, Klopp must set up a specific plan to deal with his substantial threat.

Easy does it

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Philippe Coutinho is expected to return to Liverpool’s XI for this significant Sunday clash after a long injury lay-off. Despite some excellent performances without their superstar Brazilian in the side, Liverpool have missed his moments of magic.

While it is hard to resist putting him straight into the team, Klopp must be 100% certain that there are no risks being taken with his longer term fitness. As important as this game is to Liverpool’s season, losing Coutinho for another period would be far more detrimental than defeat.

Dropping Behind

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Liverpool’s pressing approach means they will always adopt a high defensive line. Trying to compress the middle of the pitch, Klopp’s team aim to win the ball back in dangerous areas up the field and spring rapid transitional attacks.

The trouble with this, however, is when a direct ball is played through the midfield press. Space is then found behind the Liverpool defence and quick runners have often ended up through on goal with a simple run down the channels as a result.

In Anthony Martial, Manchester United have one of the league’s quickest wingers. Not only electric over the ground, Martial is a cool finisher and he is a particular threat. Liverpool’s pressing must be perfect to avoid the initial direct ball into Ibrahimovic, who could carve their defence apart with a simple pass behind them.