Liverpool: 3 key individual matchups to watch at Manchester United

Liverpool, Sadio Mane (Photo by TIM KEETON/POOL/AFP via Getty Images)
Liverpool, Sadio Mane (Photo by TIM KEETON/POOL/AFP via Getty Images) /
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Liverpool, Trent Alexander-Arnold
Liverpool, Trent Alexander-Arnold (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images) /

Liverpool RB Trent Alexander-Arnold vs. Manchester United LB Luke Shaw

Another interesting battle out wide will occur on the opposite flank between Liverpool superstar Trent Alexander-Arnold and the resurgent Luke Shaw. Although Shaw was regarded as a disappointment for quite some time, he has really blossomed since Jose Mourinho’s ousting and has been particularly solid this season for the Red Devils.

Shaw has only been dribbled past 0.4 times per game in the 2020-2021 Premier League season. He is also second on his team with 2.3 key passes per game, which is extraordinary for a fullback. Alexander-Arnold is no slouch either with 2.0 per game, so it’s quite remarkable that Shaw actually has him beat.

These are two great wide creators at their respective positions, so watching them go head-to-head will be thrilling. Shaw has the edge on “TAA” in terms of his defending, and Liverpool fans should monitor how Jurgen Klopp uses his X-Factor.

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Alexander-Arnold can really open up the game with early crosses, and he may have to sit a little deeper to respect the United attack, including Shaw’s runs from left back. Both tactically and in terms of their individual talents, Shaw vs. Alexander-Arnold could be a matchup that decides the outcome of this Premier League clash.