Defensive frailties were Man United's achilles heel early in the season as the Red Devils failed to cope up with the increasing number of injuries in their squad as a result of which they were at the receiving end of a few disappointing results.
Much to the horror of the United faithful, the Leicester City front line was too hot to handle for the Man United defence as a result of which the Red Devils suffered an embarrassing 5-3 defeat at the hands of the newly promoted side.
However Van Gaal's men have hit the ground running since then and in their ten subsequent fixtures the Red Devils have lost just once, the defeat coming at the hands of their noisy neighbors Manchester City. The growing number of injuries in the squad had reduced the squad to bare bones, but Van Gaal and United have passed the test with aplomb despite having to field a make shift defence on a number of occasions.
Their counterparts Liverpool on the other hand are currently on a dismal run. However it would be naive for United to take them lightly for Liverpool will definitely be looking to up their game for the important match on Sunday, which means that Van Gaal will have to make key decisions as far as his defensive line is concerned.
Trust David De Gea
The Man United number one has grown from strength to strength and is arguably the best goalkeeper in the league right now. It is no surprise that the former Atletico Madrid man is being targeted by European champions Real Madrid for his performances between the posts this season have been second to none.
At times when the rest of the team has looked mediocre, the Spaniard has stepped up for his side and has single handedly won them matches. His performances against the likes of Everton, Southampton and Arsenal this season were exemplary and Van Gaal will need his first choice goalkeeper to continue his good run when they face their fierce rivals.
Play a 4 man defence
Van Gaal has tweaked his formations from game to game this season, but on Sunday the Dutch man would be better off sticking to a four man defence. Should the former Bayern Munich boss opt to play with wing backs, Liverpool can cause a lot of damage from the wide areas.
The likes of Sterling and Lallana have been the standout players for the Reds this season and are expected to operate from the flanks. It is important that Van Gaal ensures that the two men are not allowed much time on the ball.
Use the returning players
Van Gaal has hardly had the chance to field his first choice defensive line this season owing to the injuries in the squad. But on Sunday Man United are set to welcome back Phil Jones and Rafael to the starting lineup which will definitely be a big boost for them.
Young defender Mcnair was substituted in the first half only in the last match against Southampton after he appeared to be struggling which means that Van Gaal will definitely be delighted to have his experienced defenders back in the squad. Furthermore Phil Jones will be able to deal better with the physical threat posed by Italian international Mario Balotelli who is expected to return for Liverpool.
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