Archrivals: United and Liverpool. Picture: Peter Byrne
Manchester United legend John O’Shea says Eric ten Hag’s men must take advantage of Liverpool’s chase for unprecedented quadruple in Sunday’s 5.45pm FA Cup quarter-final.
Having lifted the League Cup and reached the FA Cup final last season, United’s miserable season has been made worse by Jurgen Klopp’s team taking their title and fight for Premier League and European honours – with Liverpool taking a 5-1 lead into their Europa League last-16 clash against Sparta Prague last night.
The bitter rivals are now on a collision course in the FA Cup.
And former defender O’Shea tells club media: “Look, it’s a big game, a really big game.
Sheasy is expecting a unique Old Trafford atmosphere on Sunday 🔊🔥#MUFC || #FACup
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) March 15, 2024
“Any time we’re playing Liverpool, it's a huge game, but also, you know, it's a proper chance to win a big trophy.
“I think the players will be confident, because look at the backing they'll get from Old Trafford against Liverpool, but also being aware that, look, Liverpool have players that can hurt you.
“Liverpool, obviously, are still fighting on a couple more fronts so they might have their eye off the ball a little bit maybe. Hopefully, United can take advantage.”
Everyone has a part to play on Sunday 🫵
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) March 15, 2024
🗣️ @RioFerdy5 #MUFC || #FACup pic.twitter.com/fTU1cTQuqA
Meanwhile, Klopp is hoping his players can find their rhythm and continue raking in silverware before he walks away from the job at the end of the season.
One kingpin who he will certainly be looking to bank on his Mo Salah, who only recently returned from a lengthy injury.
1️⃣⚽
— Liverpool FC (@LFC) March 14, 2024
3️⃣🅰️@MoSalah is your Player of the Match 🆚 Sparta Prague 👑 pic.twitter.com/GDNOMehNIy
Klopp says of his Egyptian ace, who he looked to rest last night: “He was out for a surprisingly long time, but now he is back and we have to make sure that we can really count on him consistently again.”
dailyvoice@inl.co.za