Manchester United defender Luke Shaw has opened up on his hidden strategy to counter Liverpool’s major advantage ahead of Sunday’s highly anticipated meeting.
United looking to build momentum
United have endured a patchy start to the 2025/26 season, which currently has them sitting in 10th place in the Premier League table.
Ruben Amorim’s men have struggled for consistency and there have even been calls for a change in the dugout, although Sir Jim Ratcliffe and the football leadership group don’t have plans to do so at the moment.
However, United eased to a morale-boosting 2-0 win over Sunderland just before the October international break, bringing a renewed sense of optimism within the squad and among supporters.
But, with Amorim’s future still uncertain, a sustained run of good performances and results will be essential. A positive result against Liverpool, in particular, could greatly bolster his position.
Anfield has proven to be a tough ground for United over the years. The Red Devils’ last win at the home of their bitter rivals came in 2016 courtesy of a Wayne Rooney winner. Anfield is known to be a daunting ground, but Shaw believes he has a tactic that will help him and his teammates get over the line.
Shaw unveils secret weapon to nullify Liverpool
The England international told club media, “You really feel it. Of course, not just when you’re in the stadium, but leading into the stadium. You go along a one-way road kind of thing and the bus is there, and there are a lot of fans outside. It really is hostile.”
“I think as players, you kind of enjoy that moment, you know, it really feels like a big game then. It can be very hostile. But I think it’s part and parcel of football, the rivalry.”
Shaw continued, “I think once you are in the zone, you kind of forget about everything else. It is, like you said, business as usual.”
“But of course, before the game, I think always for me, when you get into the changing room, I think you zone out of most things and you completely focus on the game ahead and what needs to be done, that’s just how I am.”
“I just focus completely on the game when I’m in the changing room and don’t think about too many distractions outside of that.”
Sunday’s fixture is a landmark one, as it marks the 100th match United will take on Liverpool at Anfield.
Kick-off is at 4.30 pm.
Featured image Jan Kruger via Getty Images
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Derick Kinoti
Derick Kinoti is a football writer at The Peoples Person who has covered Manchester United and the Premier League extensively for years. His work blends sharp analysis, tactical insight, and engaging storytelling that resonates with fans around the world. Derick has gained valuable experience in football journalism, developing strong expertise in SEO writing, digital content creation, and social media engagement. A tech enthusiast with a Computer Science degree from the University of Nairobi, he ultimately swapped code for football commentary, bringing an analytical, detail-oriented approach to his writing. Derick is convinced Wayne Rooney is the true GOAT and won’t hear otherwise!
