Daily Mirror (Northern Ireland)

ROBERTSON RARING TO GO

- BY DAVID MADDOCK

ANDY ROBERTSON is expecting a Manchester United backlash after their bitter rivals’ dismal run.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s flops have won just two Premier League games all season and sit just two points above the drop zone ahead of Sunday’s clash.

United came under heavy criticism following their 1-0 defeat at Newcastle in the final game before the internatio­nal break.

But Liverpool defender Robertson said: “I have no doubt that they’ll produce a reaction after a poor performanc­e against Newcastle. I don’t think it matters what your form is like in these games. It doesn’t matter that we’ve won eight on the bounce and they’re struggling. It’s Man United v Liverpool.

“They’ll be wanting to kick-start their season and for them, there would be no better time to do it than against us. I’m absolutely sure that they will be firing.”

The Scotland skipper (right) says there is no room for a post internatio­nal-break slump from his side as they look to equal an incredible Premier League record.

Victory at Old Trafford would match Manchester City’s mark of 18 straight wins, and he said: “We have our own objectives and our own aims. That’s what we’ve got to be striving for. I think what makes it so special is that it’s historic. There have been such great battles down the years. Always top teams who have always fought against each other for everything on the pitch.

“It’s genuinely a different atmosphere when you play against them. There is always an edge to it, a proper game and, sometimes, it’s like a cup tie.”

Joel Matip declared himself fit after coming through training yesterday and keeper Alisson is also ready to return after two months out with a calf strain. Mo Salah continued with his rehab plan and remains in contention.

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