Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand wants to see more protection alongside Kobbie Mainoo in midfield ahead of the Liverpool clash this weekend.

There were huge spaces for Jurgen Klopp’s side to exploit during the FA Cup tie last month, and Mainoo was left with the responsibility of covering a lot of ground across the pitch. Ferdinand is hoping that there will be no repeat of that on Sunday:

“How many games do you see him being left exposed? Imagine that feeling, being exposed in that midfield, it’s a lonely place in there if there’s big spaces.”

“There’s got to be older players and coaches in that team that make sure they tighten it up for that player, especially for the game at the weekend [against Liverpool].”

Casemiro’s return should help Mainoo

It is important to point out that Casemiro was unavailable for the cup tie against Liverpool due to injury, and he also didn’t start the draw versus Brentford last Saturday when United were cut open at will by their opponents.

The Brazilian international will, however, be in the team this weekend, and he has the experience to ensure Mainoo doesn’t get overrun in the middle of the park.

United will need to be at their absolute best to stop Liverpool

The Red Devils’ form recently has been erratic, to say the least, but they should be able to take heart from the victory in the FA Cup against Klopp’s team.

United have shown they possess the ability to hurt their opponents on the counter-attack, and it’s clear that Erik ten Hag will try to use the same tactics that worked so well for him in the match at Old Trafford a few weeks ago. Whether it will lead to the same result, we shall have to wait and see.