Four pundits predict Man Utd vs Liverpool result as clear consensus reached

The Premier League fixture between Manchester United and Liverpool takes place on Sunday afternoon at Old Trafford – and several pundits have had their say on how the blockbuster clash will play out

Sunday's clash between Manchester United and Liverpool stands out as the headline Premier League game of the weekend. Liverpool were beaten 2-1 in the reverse fixture at Anfield back in October and Arne Slot will now be hoping his side can produce a better performance - and get a better result - this time around.

Despite inconsistent campaigns filled with setbacks, both teams are still pushing for Champions League qualification. Encounters at Old Trafford between these two giants rarely disappoint and this one is expected to deliver plenty of drama.

Ahead of the game, some of the nation's biggest pundits have had their say on how they see the match playing out. Here, the ECHO rounds up their predictions.

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Jamie Carragher - 1-1 Draw

Jamie Carragher, despite his Liverpool ties, is not confident his former side will take all three points. He expressed clear concerns over their current level.

He said: "Man United versus Liverpool – I'm not confident. I'm not. I don't think United are playing well, to be fair. I think Liverpool are getting results without playing well. I'm not convinced by them at all, to be honest, at the minute. I can't see Liverpool winning it.

"I'm going to go for a 1-1 draw. I think these teams will probably finish third and fourth in the Premier League but I don't think either of them are a really good team, to be honest."

Alan Shearer - Draw

Alan Shearer shares Carragher's expectation of a draw, arguing that both sides may settle for a point given their current league standing and overall condition.

The former Newcastle striker wrote in The Metro: "It's not the Liverpool or Man United we know at all from how they have played this season. I don't think it'll be a classic.

"I think because of where both teams are mentally and physically, and also in terms of where they are in the league. I don’t think a draw would be a bad result for both of them."

Harry Redknapp - 3-2 United win

Harry Redknapp is forecasting an entertaining, goal-filled game and believes Manchester United will narrowly come out on top. He pointed to Bruno Fernandes as a decisive factor in the match.

Redknapp said: "The big one. United weren't at their best against Brentford but they got the job done and that's all that matters at this stage. Michael Carrick's done a terrific job here, you couldn't have asked for much from him.

"That's now three wins in a row for Liverpool as they end the season in some decent form. I still wouldn't say they've been unbelievable but a Champions League finish is essential for them and it looks like they'll get it.

"I don't really trust either of these sides at the back right now, so I think we'll see goals. I'm picking United, 3-2! All eyes are on Bruno Fernandes as he hunts down that Premier League assist record. It would be typical of him to do something special in this game."

Paul Merson - 2-2 Draw

Paul Merson also predicts a draw, though he expects a lively and attacking contest rather than a cautious one.

Merson told Sportskeeda: "Unlike previous years, this isn't the biggest game in English football anymore! It's still massive for both teams though. If Liverpool lose and Brighton beat Newcastle, there will only be five points separating the Reds and the Seagulls in sixth.

"When you look at Liverpool's fixtures after this game as well, they are not absolute give-me contests. Chelsea at Anfield, Aston Villa away and Brentford again at home is a tricky run.

"Manchester United were poor against Leeds and I don't think they were great in the wins over Chelsea and Brentford either. Liverpool can cause them problems and I expect there will be goals in this game.

"Alexander Isak scoring for Liverpool last weekend will be a huge boost for his confidence. It has been a long hard season for him, starting with him refusing to play and then the injury after the move to Liverpool. That goal would have meant a lot to him.

"Bruno Fernandes has also played extremely well this season. But when it comes to the Player of the Year award, we must not ignore the fact that he only plays once a week."

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