Liverpool vs Manchester United player ratings: Was Adam Lallana the Reds star man? How did Daniel Sturridge fare?

Liverpool 2 Manchester United 0

(Getty)

Liverpool took a large stride towards the Europa League quarter-finals with a comfortable victory against old foes Manchester United at Anfield.

It was the first time the two North West rivals had ever met in European competition and the Merseyside crowd greeted the occasion with typical enthusiasm.

David De Gea, the United goalkeeper, was in fine form yet again but he couldn’t keep out Daniel Sturridge from the penalty spot after the England striker was been bundled to the floor by Nathaniel Clyne.

The hosts doubled their advantage after the break when substitute Michael Carrick gifted the impressive Adam Lallana with the opportunity to play in Roberto Firmino in the penalty area.

Jurgen Klopp’s men now head into the second leg, at Old Trafford next Thursday night, knowing an away goal would open up an almost unassailable lead.

But who impressed on a memorable night at Anfield? See below for our player ratings...

Both sides know the Europa League could possibly be their best chance of reaching next season's Champions League.

"The fans were brilliant, electric," said Jordan Henderson at full-time. "That gave us a great boost. De Gea made some good saves, we created a lot of chances and we felt we could be two or three up."