There was little indication that Manchester United would succumb to the historic defeat they were subject to at Anfield in March 2023.
After an early bump or two, 2022/23 had been a campaign of prosperity for the Red Devils with a slick Dutchman at the helm. Erik ten Hag had claimed silverware in year one following a 2-0 victory over Newcastle United in the Carabao Cup final, but things just haven't been the same since chastening beatdown at the hands of their most bitter rivals.
A strong end to the Premier League season ensured United's Champions League qualification, but Ten Hag's side have already meekly bowed out of the competition ahead of their first return to Anfield since the 7-0 defeat.
Many would've fancied United to upset the odds on their last visit to Liverpool's home, but a combination of indifferent form, an ever-increasing injury list, and Bruno Fernandes' suspension means we're all just wonderig how many the Red Devils will lose by on Sunday afternoon.
Thus, this isn't a guide detailing how Ten Hag can mastermind a remarkable victory over the Reds, but how the former Ajax coach can perhaps keep himself in the job by avoiding another mauling.
“I saw 11 individuals losing their heads, not sticking to the plan," uttered an aghast Ten Hag in the wake of United's previous trip to Anfield.
Right, so what was the plan on that fateful afternoon?
Well, despite United's eventual collapse, it's worth noting that they were well in the game at half-time and arguably had the better of the game before Cody Gakpo gave the Reds a 43rd-minute lead.
Ten Hag's 'plan' revolved around the utilisation of Wout Weghorst as an auxiliary #10. The Dutchman was there to aid United's direct ploy which aimed to make the most of Marcus
Read on 90min.com