Liverpool v Manchester United: Combined XI
By David Gate
Left Back: Alberto Moreno
I can barely believe I am picking Alberto Moreno but here we are. The often lampooned Spaniard has had his best spell in a Liverpool shirt this season and deserves his place on the list. He has largely eradicated the crucial errors that marred his earlier times as the Reds’ left back. After losing his place to James Milner last season he has convinced Jürgen Klopp that he is trustworthy again.
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One of the best things about his game at present is how well he links up with Sadio Mane and Philippe Coutinho on Liverpool’s left hand side. Moreno’s attacking capability has always been the strongest part of his game and playing alongside the Ballon d’Or nominees is has had a hugely positive effect on his form.
The competition for this place is largely absent. Andrew Robertson is an exciting prospect but hasn’t had the minutes yet to displace Moreno. For United, left back is their weakest position in the squad. The position rotates between Danny Blind, Matteo Darmian and Ashley Young. None of them are a specialist to position and have all been serviceable without ever impressing.
Liverpool were buying Moreno at the same time Manchester United were breaking records to sign Luke Shaw. Who would have thought it would be Moreno that is keeping down his place while Shaw continues his fade into irrelevance?