Louis van Gaal insists Liverpool clash is massive

Manchester United boss Louis van Gaal believes it is wrong to devalue tomorrow’s clash between both clubs on the basis that it’s ‘only’ a Europa League tie.

It is the first time that United and Liverpool have met in a European competition but as it’s not being played in the lucrative and prestigious Champions League some observers in the game have said it’s not as important – utter nonsense of course if you support either team.

Van Gaal said: “I noticed that you have a negative view [of the Europa League], but against teams like Midtjylland there were how many fans? 58,000.

“The fans of Manchester United are appreciating it. How many fans do you think we’ll have against Liverpool? I think maybe 75,000.

“I think also Anfield is sold out, so that’s what I have to say, it’s very important for both teams and the fans want to see the duel between us.

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“I think football in England is very deep in the life of the people, of course I have noticed that also in Spain and Germany but that was less deep than here.

“It’s fantastic to see that, that’s also one aspect why I wanted to come here, to have that experience. It is also sometimes what I can see too much, but I like to see it because you can see the heart of the club and also the feeling that they are with you every game. It’s nice for the players and for the manager.

“You have to win – there is no difference [that it’s the Europa cup]. United and Liverpool is always a big game. It’s historical and even bigger now because both teams are fighting for a Champions League place.”

Meanwhile, Liverpool defender Dejan Lovren says the Reds will be going into the game with confidence following back-to-back league wins over Manchester City and Crystal Palace.

“We are in good form so we have a lot of confidence and we just need to keep continuing to play like this and the result will come,” said the defender.

“It’s an important game because it’s a Europa League match and we want to go to the final. It’s a special game because it’s a derby and it’s always great to beat Manchester United.

“They have individual players who can score whenever they want so we just need to be concentrated.”

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