Source: Telegraph
Liverpool v Manchester United: Anfield braced for fiery derby
More than 1,000 fans will march in protest against Liverpool's owners to coincide with the first joint visit to Anfield of Tom Hicks and George Gillett since last spring. Meanwhile, Joel Glazer, son of United owner Malcolm, will be at Wembley to see the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in action rather than watching Michael Owen's first return to Anfield since joining Manchester United. [LNB]Spirit of Shankly insist that United fans cannot afford to be smug. "Those United fans who watch the protest with a wry smile should be aware that both clubs were bought by foreign owners in leveraged buy-outs," said Jay McKenna, a spokesman for SoS. [LNB] Related ArticlesHenry Winter: Ferguson keeps everyone guessingFerguson: nobody better than Michael OwenLiverpool v Manchester United: match previewRafael Benítez hoping Liverpool players will be fitSir Alex Ferguson on Liverpool v Manchester UnitedSir Alex Ferguson on Michael Owen returning to Anfield to face Liverpool"They pay extortionate interest, just as Liverpool do, and they've seen money from player sales and ticket prices pay for someone to own their club. Eighty million pounds [from the sale of Cristiano Ronaldo] has not been reinvested in their team. It would be a crying shame for the FA to see its two most famous names crippled by debts." [LNB]The sight of Liverpool's unpopular owners at a time when the club are experiencing their worst run for 22 years will provide a more fractious atmosphere than usual for the United's visit, particularly with Owen among their ranks.[LNB]Merseyside police last night confirmed they would deploy as many officers as deemed necessary. United's visit is always policed heavily but more may be present in response to intelligence received.[LNB]Steven Gerrard may return for Liverpool in a match that could define their season. The Liverpool captain continues to receive treatment on his adductor strain and a late decision will be made on his fitness.[LNB]His presence would be a welcome fillip for manager Rafael Benítez, who has launched a strong defence of his transfer record following criticism for the sale of Xabi Alonso to Real Madrid this summer.[LNB]"We won a lot of games in the last year without Alonso," Benítez said. "He had a good offer from Real Madrid. That's it. We have a lot of legends who cannot play now and we're not talking about them." [LNB]One Owen is guaranteed a frosty reception on a potentially explosive day. [LNB]
