Liverpool 0 Manchester United 1: David De Gea was the best player, despite Wayne Rooney scoring the winner

ANALYSIS: A look at the star player, moment of the match and view from the bench following Manchester United's 1-0 win at Anfield

David De Gea celebrates with his Manchester United team-mates after a 1-0 win over Liverpool (GETTY IMAGES)

STAR PLAYER

David de Gea - again. The Spaniard got Manchester United out of jail with a succession of top saves.

MOMENT OF THE MATCH

With Liverpool growing in confidence, it seemed likely they would break the deadlock after the break, but De Gea kept out Emre Can and Roberto Firmino impressively.

VIEW FROM THE BENCH

Klopp spent 90 minutes on his feet in the technical area, not only directing his players but also offering referee Mark Clattenburg assistance when there were any contentious line decisions. Was bold in his substitutions in replacing a defender with a striker when they went behind, but sending on centre-back Steven Caulker up front late on smacked of desperation. Louis van Gaal, as is his preference, never left his seat. Conceding vast swathes of possession and having only one shot on target would surely not have been his pre-match tactics but it proved enough.

MOAN OF THE MATCH

England's two most decorated clubs served up a poor representation of their historic selves. There was a lack of quality, no intensity, not even any ferocious tackles. The game was typical of where both clubs are at the moment - struggling for not only form but identity.

NEXT UP

Liverpool v Exeter (FA Cup third round replay, January 20)

Manchester United v Southampton (Premier League, January 23)

PA