High stakes add spice to Reds trip to Old Trafford

● Manchester United do not need the extra motivation of denting Liverpool’s Champions League qualification hopes today as fixtures between the two rivals are always massive, manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said.

Liverpool are sixth in the standings, four points below the fourth and final Champions League spot with five games left in the season.

“We are just thinking about winning ourselves. What that does to Liverpool cannot be of our concern,” Solskjaer told reporters.

“Throughout the season, you have games you look forward to. This Liverpool game at home is one of the biggest of the season, it doesn’t matter if we’re first or second or third or fourth... No matter what, this is a massive, massive game.”

Supporters plan protest

United’s supporters are planning to protest against the club’s owners outside Old Trafford ahead of the game after the club’s failed attempt to form a Super League with 11 other top European clubs.

Manchester United executive vice-chairperson Ed Woodward admitted in a meeting with the fans that the club made mistakes and ruled out a “revival of the Super League plans”.

“Solskjaer confirmed there were no new injuries after they beat AS Roma 6-2 in the first leg of the Europa League semifinals on Thursday but said he would only pick his starting lineup today.

“Thursday night was an intense game and we need to see who is really fresh and fit to play against Liverpool,” he said.

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has never won at Old Trafford in six attempts in all competitions.

“Strange things can happen in football. Both teams have to win it, so it’s a recipe for a good game,” Klopp said.

“Without winning games we have no chance of having European football. If the others [above us] win, it doesn’t change anything for us. But for us it’s clear, we have to win.

“It’s a tough, tense game for both teams. Man United are good, especially on Thursday night; after the halftime talk they were really flying,” Klopp added.

Tougher for United

Klopp said the match could be tougher for United due to their Europa League commitments: “When you play Thursday and Sunday again, it’s a tough challenge. Yes, United are used to it but that doesn’t make it easier.

“Today is recovery (day), tomorrow a second recovery (day) and then they play. No chance to change things, but I don’t think they want to really at the moment.”

Liverpool face the prospect of not playing Champions League football next season if they do not finish in the top four but Klopp said missing out will not affect transfer business or players’ contract negotiations.

“Playing the Champions League is obviously massive. It’s not good if we don’t make it,” the German said. — Reuters

‘Playing the Champions League is massive. It’s not good if we don’t make it’