Liverpool vs Manchester United: Paul Merson says Sadio Mane will cost Reds win

Liverpool host Manchester United on Saturday aiming to overcome a torrid run of form that has seen them win just one of their last seven games.

However, they will go into the game without the influential Sadio Mane, who has been ruled out for the next six weeks with a hamstring injury.

Manchester United come to town with top-scorer Romelu Lukaku ready to fire down Liverpool having hit 11 goals during his first 10 games for the club.

And Merson thinks the loss of Mane, coupled with the form of Lukaku, will be decisive factors to how the game pans out.

“This is a massive game, but I just don't see how Liverpool win without Sadio Mane,” he told Sky Sports. 

“I half-fancied them with Mane, but I can't see it now.

“It will be interesting to see how United approach it. 

“You would like to think, with the squad and firepower they have got, that they will have a go. 

“But we have said that before and they have parked the bus, so we will have to see what happens. 

“It's a big game for Romelu Lukaku. Now he is with one of the big boys he has to perform against the big boys.”

Merson also thinks the two teams will play out a stalemate at Anfield.

“Manchester United are a better team but Liverpool's home advantage should help them get a draw,” he added.

Liverpool are aiming for a first league win over their fierce rivals on home soil since 2013.

Daniel Sturridge scored the winner on that occasion, inflicting a first defeat of David Moyes’ turbulent reign in the process.