Ahead of our clash with Manchester United on Saturday, I’ve had a go at picking a combined XI from the two squads.
Here goes…
Goalkeeper – David de Gea
This was an easy one. Mignolet has been solid, but David de Gea has won Manchester United points and games. I expect him to play v Liverpool this weekend, too. Best ‘keeper in the Premier League.
Right-back – Nathaniel Clyne
Another simple, yet solid choice. Clyne has shown in his short time with Liverpool that he can sort out our problem area of right-back, and provide a level of solidness that we haven’t had in years.
Centre-back – Chris Smalling
Neither team are blessed in this area, yet everyone seems to have an opinion on this place. Smalling is solid enough and I would rather have him than Skrtel on paper. Can play from the back and seems to be getting better with age.
Centre-back – Mamadou Sakho
I want Liverpool to keep Lovren in the team, but the best defender we have, when fit and on form is Sakho. Great on the ball, good in recovery but just needs to show more in a positional sense.
Left-back – Joe Gomez
This lad has been a revelation this year and would fully deserve his place in this fictitious starting XI. Strong and defensive-minded in exactly the area we needed to be solid after the hurricane of madness that was Alberto Moreno. Give me Gomez every time.
Central midfield – James Milner
Possibly the best signing of our summer and the bargain of last transfer window, Milner has already offered a great platform for out midfield to build from. Liverpool now have a competent midfield, but in Milner they have someone with a champion’s brain and an experienced game.
Central midfield – Morgan Schneiderlin
Possibly United’s best signing, the long-term successor to Carrick is already a constant figure in the United first team. Calm on the ball and sensible in possession, Schneiderlin keeps things ticking over in the midfield, an area that Louis van Gaal has struggled with during his tenure.
Left-sided midfielder – Juan Mata
A player who has flattered to deceive in his time at United, but this season he has started well and has shown his class. A quick striker ahead of him and it could take United on to another level. A clever midfielder who would get into most teams in the league.
Right-sided midfielder – Jordon Ibe
Pace, power and talent, Ibe hasn’t quite had the beginning of season some fans had hoped, but I would be playing him v United and he’s probably been the best of an average bunch between the two sides.
Attacking central midfielder – Philippe Coutinho
The best player on the pitch and one of the most entertaining in the league, Coutinho has shone this past year and will only get better once Sturridge gets back. Coutinho needs options ahead of him, but the trickery between Mata and himself could be something wonderful. And yes, I know he is banned.
Striker – Wayne Rooney
There is a big debate around where his best position is and how good he really is, but there is no doubt he is class. Has a great touch and knows where the goal is, I love the way he plays, he has passion and is a superstar of the Premier League. Knows his way around the football pitch, too. His determination is a massive asset in these games, too.
