Liverpool vs. Manchester United: 5 key matchups

2. Matic vs. Henderson

Just mentioning the name Matic around a Chelsea fan will give them the chills. The Blues made a puzzling decision to sell the defensive midfielder to rivals Manchester United, and Red Devil fans could not be happier. Matic has been stellar this season, locking down the middle of the pitch for United. His play would allow Pogba license to get forward and create more as well, as Matic often sat in front of the backline and cut off passing lanes.

Matic will have a huge effect on this match, but Liverpool midfielder Jordan Henderson will need to equal his intensity if Klopp’s side wants to have success going forward. By no means a traditional defensive midfielder, Henderson plays more of a playmaker’s role in the Liverpool side. He can win the ball back in midfield as start counter attacks but has much more of an impact on the offensive side of the game.

Limiting Matic’s effect on the game will be a huge task for Henderson to undertake. Klopp will need Henderson in the midfield to take control for Liverpool and dictate the pace at which they play. Mourinho would love nothing more than for Matic to disrupt Henderson the whole match and constantly put him under pressure. The midfield will be a very important area in this match, so winning those battles could be the difference maker for either side.