Fabinho names crucial reason why Man Utd are contenders this season

Fabinho

Liverpool midfielder Fabinho is confident his side can pick up a win over Manchester United on Sunday – but has put his finger on a key improvement in Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side this season.

The Merseysiders are the defending Premier League champions. But it is United who head into Sunday’s clash between the sides as top dogs after Tuesday’s win over Burnley.

United remain unbeaten on their travels in the Premier League this season. And a win over Jurgen Klopp’s side would send United six points clear at the top.

With lots at stake, our Red Letter column has named the difference-maker for Liverpool – and dismissed United’s challenge.

Fabinho, however, insists Liverpool cannot afford to take United lightly and knows exactly what’s at stake on Sunday.

The Brazilian admits United are now winning games they might not have done last season. He also admits they are enjoying “real momentum” in the Premier League.

He told ESPN Brasil: “We are aware that the fight isn’t only against Manchester United.

“But they are definitely confident and enjoying a good momentum in the league.

“They are winning some games that perhaps they weren’t last season, such as against Wolves.

“However, our focus isn’t exclusively on Manchester United.


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“The main thing is trying to play our football and winning games.

“Unfortunately, that wasn’t the case in the last three matches. Although we lost some important points, we are still in a good position.

“We have a big opportunity on Sunday against Manchester United and hopefully we can be the winners.”

Neville teases Liverpool over pressure

Meanwhile, former United full-back Gary Neville has spoken of his excitement ahead of Sunday’s crunch Premier League meeting.

United’s march to the top of the table comes after almost impeccable league form since a 1-0 defeat to Arsenal at the start of November.

Liverpool, meanwhile, have only won two of their past six outings.

“It’s going to be a huge build-up to the game on Sunday. Liverpool, the best team in the league last season by a stretch. I think probably eight weeks ago, everybody’s absolute certainties to win the league,” Neville said.

“I still don’t think we’re veering away from that too much and it isn’t a moment to get carried away. We know full well how quickly this season has turned around. It was Chelsea three or four weeks ago, City were having a really bad time and now they’re coming to the fore.

“Liverpool looked strong and Manchester United looked dead seven or eight weeks ago.”

READ MORE: Romano claims Liverpool offered Arsenal flop in shock development