It speaks volumes for the intense rivalry that exists between Liverpool and Manchester United that Jurgen Klopp - even after the most destructive 4-0 win for his side - found something to be irked about.
29.11.2023 - 13:23 / manchestereveningnews.co.uk
You'd have thought it'd be hard to miss something you never really had, but Manchester United have clearly missed Kobbie Mainoo this season.
The starlet had only made three appearances for Erik ten Hag's side last season before his season was cut short with injury but it was already clear how highly the manager rated him. Ten Hag has never been shy about giving youngsters a space in his team if they can prove they're good enough and Mainoo already looked destined for big things.
There was no surprise when he was included in United's pre-season plans after recovering from his injury but the teenager would be dealt with more bad luck. He suffered another injury during the tour of the USA which would see him miss the opening of the season alongside Amad and Tyrell Malacia.
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United's injury crisis would only deepen as the campaign went on with Luke Shaw and Lisandro Martinez becoming long-term absentees while nearly everyone else in the squad would miss at least one game with a knock or illness. Yet, the first injury they suffered, before the season even began, might have had the biggest impact.
It's hard to judge how much Mainoo would have played if he was available given his tender years but it's safe to assume it would have been a significant amount, especially given the dire state of United's midfield. Casemiro, the key to the side's progress last term, regressed significantly before he picked up an injury, Mason Mount has flattered to deceive and has been out on the sidelines, Donny van de Beek is a non-factor and Christian Eriksen is injured as well.
The only midfielder who has shown any semblance
It speaks volumes for the intense rivalry that exists between Liverpool and Manchester United that Jurgen Klopp - even after the most destructive 4-0 win for his side - found something to be irked about.
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