Manchester United vs Liverpool will always be an intense game regardless of whether its a pre-season or regular season fixture, according to Reds midfielder Adam Lallana.
The two most successful clubs in English football come together for an International Champions Cup tie in Michigan and fans of both sides are excited to see the two giants go head-to-head.
“Never, no,” the midfielder told the club’s website when asked if matches against the Red Devils can be considered friendlies.
The bitter rivals are among the top teams in the Premier League currently and ahead of the 2018/19 season, among the favourites for the league title.
“None of these games are, especially when you’ve got the atmosphere and the fans here. It just feels like a normal game and I’m sure that will be the same tonight.”
Liverpool in particular, have had an impressive summer as they have really made a dent in the transfer market. And the initial signs have been promising, with Jurgen Klopp’s men beating Manchester City on Thursday while on their tour of the United States.
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“Obviously the opponents have been a lot tougher since we came out to the States. It’s a magnificent stadium. Hopefully it will be full and we’ll have another good run-out.”
While the Reds have a majority of their senior stars available for Saturday’s fixture, their preparations have been dealt a blow with new recruit Naby Keita suffering a neck injury.
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The Guinean midfielder is not expected to feature against the Red Devils and English fullback Nathaniel Clyne is another confirmed absentee. The powerful right-back isn’t injured, however, as he has gone home for the birth of his child.
After playing United, Liverpool have two pre-season ties left. Both are against Italian opposition, Torino and Napoli.
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Lallana and Co. will open their 2018/19 Premier League campaign on August 12 with a home fixture against West Ham United.