Former Manchester United captain Gary Neville has warned inform striker Romelu Lukaku that his career at the club will be defined by his performances against the big sides such as Liverpool.

United take on Jurgen Klopp’s Reds, and the pressure will be on Lukaku to continue his brilliant goalscoring form so far this season – having netted 11 goals in his first 10 games.

Manager Jose Mourinho has been full of praise for his striker, branding his current form as ‘amazing’. But despite being one of the most deadly strikers in the world at the moment, Lukaku has been advised by Neville to ensure he continues his exploits in front of goal and punish Liverpool.

The 24-year-old was a doubt for the game after being injured whilst away on international duty, but Belgium manager Roberto Martinez played down fears he could miss the game.

Lukaku hasn’t necessarily been prolific against Liverpool, so United will hope their £75m man will up his game on Saturday – something Neville says is important if he is to leave a lasting legacy at Old Trafford. Liverpool vs Manchester United betting odds.

“Romelu Lukaku has settled in brilliantly and done everything he was asked to do in terms of converting those home draws into wins, but games like this one are the real test,” the United legend told Sky Sports.

“When I look back to the Everton striker’s recent performances at Anfield he didn’t play well, so this is the next step up for him.”

“Going away to Anfield is a big test and his service will be more limited so he’s now got to show the ruthless streak to win the big games for United.”

“He will be defined by his performances in big matches. You’re at a club with aspirations of winning things and a world class striker will be defined by trophies and performances in big matches.”

Mourinho is known to go into big games with a bit of caution, and last season was criticised for his defensive play – especially against Liverpool where the two sides drew on both occasions in the league. ‘Red Monday’ was an eagerly anticipated event back in October 2016, but it failed to live up to the hype as Jose fielded a very defensive minded side and the two bitter rivals drew blank.

However, Neville believes his United side are better equipt to beat the bigger sides this season and won’t go into games quite so defensively.

“I think Jose Mourinho will know on Saturday, after going there last season when he couldn’t afford to lose and with a team that weren’t in a good place, that he has a plan which can be effective,” said Neville.

“This time it is Liverpool who need to win this fixture and I would expect a lot more from United in terms of being on the front foot.”

“It suits Mourinho in terms of his mentality. What I would expect is similar tactics from last season but with more ambition on the counter-attack.”

“Paul Pogba is a big absence with his arrogance on the ball, so they will defend deep and be compact again, but whereas there was a back six at times away at Anfield last season, they can commit more on the break.”