Gerrard relishing United test

30 August 2013 09:16

Liverpool face a stern test of their early season form as they host arch-rivals and champions Manchester United on Sunday.

The Reds have opened the campaign well with back-to-back 1-0 Barclays Premier League wins over Stoke and Aston Villa courtesy of Daniel Sturridge goals.

Sturridge maintained his good run with two more goals in the midweek Capital One Cup win over Notts County, although after being taken to extra time that 4-2 success was less comfortable than initially hoped.

Nevertheless, they take on United in good heart.

Captain Steven Gerrard is relishing the contest, which will be the first of two in the space of a month after the clubs were also paired in the next round of the League Cup.

Gerrard told the club's website, www.liverpoolfc.com: "You've got the two most successful clubs in the country and the rivalry is huge because of how close the clubs are and all the massive games and battles we've had with them over the years.

"If you ask any supporter or player to pick a game they'd like to win, you look for Manchester United."

Liverpool have a number of injury concerns after defenders Kolo Toure and Aly Cissokho and midfielder Joe Allen were forced out of the action at Anfield on Tuesday.

Striker Luis Suarez continues to serve his suspension but, on the positive side, centre-back Martin Skrtel is hopeful of returning after a knee problem.

Gerrard believes the Reds should enter the match full of confidence.

Source: PA