Exclusive: In an exclusive interview with ReadLiverpoolFC, former striker Michael Owen shared his insights ahead of this Sunday’s high-stakes clash between his two former clubs, Liverpool and Manchester United, at Old Trafford.
Though Owen famously wore the shirts of both Northwest rivals, he remains most synonymous with his prolific, goal-heavy tenure at Anfield. It was during that golden era with the Reds that he reached the pinnacle of individual achievement, securing the prestigious Ballon d’Or.
The legendary marksman remains one of the most clinical finishers to ever grace the Anfield turf. While his later move to the Red Devils famously divided opinion across the M62, his record in a Red shirt is undisputed; Owen notched a phenomenal 158 goals in 297 appearances for the club, a run that saw him crowned the best player on the planet with the 2001 Ballon d’Or.
However, despite his predatory instincts, Owen’s record in this specific fixture is a curious one. For all his heroics on the European and domestic stage, the striker only managed to find the back of the net three times for Liverpool against their bitter rivals from Manchester.
Now, the man who lived the rivalry from both dressing rooms weighs in on how this latest chapter of English football’s biggest feud will unfold.
Michael Owen, who represents Casino.org, a leading platform helping players find UK casino brands, said this in the build-up to the clash.
“Liverpool v Man Utd is always a vital game to win for either team, but this time it could be for Champions League football, or a point helps both teams get Champions League football.” Owen said
In a move that sent shockwaves through the North West, Owen eventually crossed the ultimate divide to join the Red Devils in the twilight of his career. It was a decision that, for many of the Anfield faithful, forever cast a shadow over his once-untouchable legacy on Merseyside.
Working under the legendary Sir Alex Ferguson, the former England ace added a Premier League winner’s medal to his trophy cabinet and found the net 17 times for United, most notably that unforgettable last-gasp winner in the Manchester derby.
| Key Stat | Michael Owen (LFC Career) | Michael Owen (MUFC Career) |
| Appearances | 297 | 52 |
| Goals | 158 | 17 |
| Major Honours | FA Cup, League Cup (2), UEFA Cup | Premier League, League Cup |
Having experienced the fire and fury of this fixture from both dressing rooms, Owen possesses a unique perspective on the suffocating intensity awaiting the players at Old Trafford this Sunday.
Arne Slot will be hoping his team can be within touching distance of a Champions League spot with a win on the weekend, while Michael Carrick – occupying the home team’s dug-out – is praying that his own side can move away from the likes of Liverpool, instead of being leapfrogged by their enemies.
It’s a fascinating encounter, and one that former United full-back Gary Neville believes is pivotal for both teams.
Owen – who lined up alongside Neville for England -when exclusively speaking to ReadLiverpoolFC, has also chipped in with his thoughts, ahead of the tantalising match on Sunday.
Owen’s comments on the game at Old Trafford
Owen, who represents Casino.org, a leading platform helping players find UK casino brands, said this on his two former sides’ recent form.
“For Liverpool at the minute, a win and they can finish 3rd in the table and above Man Utd. So the atmosphere is always going to be electric when these two teams face each other.
“But you don’t prepare differently. The players will know what it means to be in such a game.
“The biggest tactical threat, Man Utd’s front three are now playing with a lot more energy than they were at the beginning of the season, plus Bruno is the most influential player they have.”
Owen is correct to single out Bruno Fernandes as the Red Devils’ most influential player, as the Portuguese playmaker has an outrageous 20 goals and assists next to his name this season.
He also loves playing against United’s Merseyside adversaries, with three goals and two assists under his belt, when previously facing Liverpool.
Liverpool will also be without the services of Mohamed Salah through injury, so it could well prove to be a jittery affair, especially if Benjamin Sesko follows up his goal versus Brentford with another against Slot’s side.
While the travelling Kop will be desperate for the Reds to silence the Stretford End, the stage is set for a tense afternoon at Old Trafford. With Owen’s insights highlighting the unique pressure of this fixture, both sides have more than just bragging rights on the line.
As these two Champions League heavyweights and bitter rivals prepare for another blockbuster clash, fans can expect an electric atmosphere in what promises to be a defining moment in the race for the top five.
