The 3 key battles as Manchester United host Liverpool in the Premier League

Henrikh Mkhitaryan vs James Milner

A lot has been made of Liverpool’s defensive vulnerabilities this season and, with United’s forwards in great form, it could be a long afternoon for Klopp and co on Sunday.

With Zlatan Ibrahimovic doubtful due to illness, one key battle could be down the United right, where the resurgent Henrikh Mkhitaryan could look to exploit James Milner’s defensive limitations.

The Armenian international had a slow start to his United career, which was of course well documented, but since he came into the side at the end of November, he has proven why he was so highly-rated at Borussia Dortmund.

The 27-year-old has scored twice and laid on three assists in his last five home games, and he has consistently been one of their highest performers over recent weeks.

Milner has taken to the left-back role reasonably well this season, and deserves great credit for doing so, yet Mkhitaryan is a clever footballer who, although not blessed with great pace, is extremely adept at reading the game, as well as taking players on and indeed getting crosses into the box.

Winning that battle could be key for both sides on Sunday.