Roy Keane explains how Man Utd made Liverpool ‘look average’ in first half, as Van Dijk branded ‘sloppy’

Roy Keane says Manchester United went ‘back to basics’ and showed aggression to get the better of Liverpool in their first half at Old Trafford.

United flew out of the blocks and put Liverpool under intense pressure. Jurgen Klopp’s side weren’t expecting it and resultantly made several mistakes.

Anthony Elanga hit the post in the 10th minute, before Jadon Sancho gave the Red Devils the lead soon afterwards. Elanga played the Englishman in and he sat James Milner down with a feint before finishing into the bottom corner.

Liverpool got better as the half went on, but United went into the break 1-0 up and as the better team.

While analysing the first half on Sky Sports, Keane praised Man Utd, while also criticising Liverpool defender Virgil van Dijk.

“They’ve gone back to basics, they’ve been aggressive and stretched Liverpool,” the former midfielder said.

“Bit disappointing they’ve only got the one goal. They look sharp, really fresh. I think the manager must be delighted.”

On Sancho’s goal, Keane continued: “It was excellent. The goal was coming. Rashford’s been making some excellent runs.

Man Utd make Liverpool ‘look average’

“With Liverpool, there’s gaps everywhere. [Man Utd] are making Liverpool look average.

“Sancho, for a player who hasn’t been playing that well, he showed great composure. Got the help of his captain Fernandes, telling him where the goal is. Fully deserved.”

On van Dijk failing to press Sancho for the goal, Keane added: “He’s been sloppy this season. Van Dijk has got to get out, he’s not moving his feet.”