Manchester United will need old De Gea for Anfield visit

This season hasn’t been perfect for Jose Mourinho and his boys with United giving a string of poor performances against mid tier clubs. But, even Manchester United’s reliable last line of defense David De Gea has to be at his best in Sunday’s lash against bitter rivals, Liverpool.

Last season’s Premier League Golden Glove winner has been looking pretty much out of form since the World Cup as Spain crashed out of Last 16. De Gea’s struggles have continued into this season as United sit sixth in the Premier League, 16 points behind the leaders. He had conceded 26 goals in 16 games whereas last season he let in only 28 in 37 appearances. But on Sunday, David De Gea needs to do what he does the best, i.e. being the best shot stopper.

De Gea has not been helped by Jose Mourinho as United’s shambolic defense has time again proved why they are struggling so badly this season. Last night in a Champions League match, Phil Jones scored a horrific own goal with absolutely no pressure from Michi Batshuyi in taking the ball. With a year left on his contract, De Gea has been linked to a move away from Manchester United. His form at the moment means his stock has slipped although if he can keep out Liverpool’s free-scoring trio of Salah, Roberto Firmino and Sadio Mane on Sunday then he will at least put his price back up.

His opposite number at Liverpool Alisson has made a flying start to his Premier League career, keeping 10 clean sheets. Allison made a daring save on the dying minutes of Champions League against Napoli which saw them go through to the Round of 16.

Former Manchester United player, Paul Ince is torn apart on who would start as the number 1 in a combined team. “If you look at reputation you’d say David de Gea but De Gea has made a few mistakes this season, and if you’re looking at what’s happening this year then Alisson would start.” Liverpool, bidding for a first league title since 1990, will go into the match extra motivated should Pep Guardiola’s City reclaim top spot on Saturday by beating Everton at home in the day’s early kickoff.