Manchester United v Liverpool: Capital One Cup match preview

A look ahead to tonight’s standout Capital One Cup fixture at Old Trafford

Luis Suarez in training with Liverpool (GETTY IMAGES)

Having served his 10-game suspension for biting Branislav Ivanovic, it seems typical that Luis Suarez’s long-awaited return will take the headlines in the biggest game of the Capital One Cup third round.

After Brendan Rogers confirmed his striker is likely to feature, Suarez could face a hostile reception at Old Trafford.

With no European interest this year, Rodgers is likely to field a strong side as he did for their second round extra-time victory against Notts County.

However he will be without the services of Phillipe Coutinho, while vice-captain Daniel Agger will undergo a late fitness check.

Robin van Persie remains sidelined after missing the weekend's humiliating 4-1 defeat in the Manchester derby.

David Moyes’ indifferent start to his United reign may force him to put out a full-strength side, despite it being their fourth game in just eleven days.

Liverpool defeated United in the league at the start of the month, and Moyes will be wary of the fans’ reaction should their fierce rivals claim a second victory.

KICK-OFF: Wednesday, 7.45 pm

PAST THREE MEETINGS…

Liverpool 1 (Sturridge) Man Utd 0, Premier League, September 2013

Man Utd 2 (Van Persie, Vidic) Liverpool 1 (Sturridge), Premier League, January 2013

Liverpool 1 (Gerrard) Man Utd 2 (Rafael, Van Persie) Premier League, September 2012

STATS…

The tie represents the first League Cup meeting between the teams since they met each other in the final of the competition over 10 years ago. Liverpool were 2-0 victors on that occasion with goals from Steven Gerrard and Michael Owen.

Wayne Rooney has netted four goals in his last three games for the club.

Daniel Sturridge has scored in each of the two games he has faced Man United wearing a Liverpool shirt.

This fixture has finished by a 2-1 score line four times in the last five meetings between the clubs.

ODDS…

Man Utd to win: 2.3

Liverpool to win: 3.5

Draw: 3.5

TV: Live on SkySports 2 at 7.45 pm, highlights on BBC at 11.05pm