Manchester United host arch-rivals Liverpool in a Premier League fixture that could prove decisive in the battle for Champions League qualification. United have improved significantly under interim boss Michael Carrick and sit third in the table, three points ahead of Liverpool, needing two more points to secure a top-five finish.

Carrick described the fixture as a “standout” game, highlighting the history and emotion involved. “It’s certainly one of my favourite games, without doubt it’s a standout game,” he said. “The history, the ups and downs the past has produced, the excitement and entertainment, and the emotion make it a really special game.”

United captain Bruno Fernandes is one assist away from the single-season record of 20, shared by Thierry Henry and Kevin De Bruyne. Carrick believes Fernandes deserves the league’s Player of the Year award for his performances this season.

Liverpool forward Mohamed Salah will miss Sunday’s game due to a muscle injury. Manager Arne Slot confirmed the injury is minor and Salah is expected to return before the end of the season. Slot praised Carrick for improving United and stressed the importance of the match.

The two clubs have met 243 times, with Manchester United winning 92 games to Liverpool’s 82, while 71 matches ended as draws. In the last five encounters, United have won three, Liverpool two.

Source: www.aljazeera.com