Decades ago, we all know how a match between bitter rivals Liverpool and Manchester United could end, and when I say this, it doesn't end nice but nasty.
That's how intense it was back then. It was all about which team outclassed the other for maximum points, and of course, the one that walks away with swag at the end of the final whistle.
These days, it is just sad to no longer witness the intensity, blood-thirsty attitude to win the ball, outrageous tackles, 100 per cent commitment that players in the past had.
I am a die-hard Liverpool fan, and honestly speaking, I have seen my team at their worst and best forms in the past, but till today, I still feel extreme and irregular bowel movement when they play Manchester United.
That's the exact situation right now! Honestly speaking, I would buy a ticket and watch Liverpool lose to West Ham United, but not against Manchester United. I believe this applies to ardent fans out there, you know how I feel.
Now, that's why rival games are different. We can't deny that when the English Premier League releases the list of fixtures for the new season, we immediately search for the matches against our rival teams.
And I don't know why, or is it just me feeling this way, Liverpool always end up locking horns with Man United in late October every year. This has been a trend, at least in the last few seasons. That's okay with me, so long as they don't play on my birthday. Can't afford to be visiting the toilet more often on my big day
In the past, when we had players like Steven Gerrard, Wayne Rooney, Roy Keane and Michael Owen, who were enjoying prime days in the league, you know that you not only have a stadium-filled with electrifying fans, but even the commentators would equally embrace the moment.
The modern-day rival games has had little to offer, and frankly speaking, the hype has relatively faded in recent campaigns.
Thanks to players like Mo Salah, Mane, Robertson, Van Dijk and Allison, I could somehow still feel the passion when they play Man United.
You can be a world-class player, but if you lack passion, which is considerably the most important trait when playing a rival team, you are not in my list!
Well, I have nothing much to complaint about the modern-day game because Liverpool have been different these days, playing slicky and solid football.
We had a bunch of talented players many years ago, but they were all unable to break the 30-year curse.
Then, Klopp happened. Man, what a difference maker he has been so far. Transforming a mediocre Liverpool squad into a Champions League winning team and of course, how could I forget, ending the three decades of agony to claim the English Premier League medal.
Anyways, about this Sunday's clash, Liverpool are certainly the favourites but I am so not prepared to write off United's chances in this one.
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| Can we see Salah celebrate like this again on Sunday? |
Come on, it's Old Trafford, and with Ronaldo's return, this is going to be a spicy one.
But, surprisingly, United's home and away matches in the league in the past few games were poor, and Solksjaer's 'Ole out' campaign is back among unhappy fans.
They say trust the process, but it looks like their fans are having a tough time trusting Solksjaer at the moment. Despite the popular campaign that has claimed its spot on social media lately, looks like the Scottish might just be able to stick to the chair with the backing of the management.
If Sunday's match is to be the decider over Ole's career at United, then chances are deeply slim for Liverpool of nicking this. You all know why. They are certainly going to put their hearts, souls, kidneys, livers to win this.
Meanwhile, it is great seeing Liverpool back at their actual best. This is the Liverpool I know. Boy oh boy, what a result in Madrid last week.
I was never over the defeat we suffered at the hands of Atletico two seasons ago. Revenge is indeed sweet. Salah again at it. The Egyptian looks hungrier, sharper and extremely clinical in front of goal.
The front three of Salah, Mane and Firmino, who went missing for the most of last season, are now back and kicking asses again.
Despite having found their regular goal-scoring boots again, I still have to thank Van Dijk because it was his long-awaited return from injury that has made all the difference.
He's such a huge influence on and off the field for the Reds. Although it was rather a quiet transfer window for Liverpool, Klopp seems confident that with the same squad he has now, winning trophies is not mission impossible.
Sunday's showdown with United is a very important fixture as Chelsea and Manchester City are racing close for top spot.
Chelsea will look to maintain their top spot when Norwich visits the bridge for an early kick-off today, while City will look to overcome Brighton in a late fixture at midnight.
Liverpool, let's do this! You'll Never Walk Alone.
