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Gary Neville names his favourite two Liverpool stars ahead of Man Utd clash


Gary Neville has picked his favourite Liverpool player from years gone by and named the star in the current set-up who “transformed” the Reds.

The Manchester United legend momentarily put club rivalries aside to praise his two selections as he previewed the upcoming north-west derby.

An Anfield clash between Liverpool and United is always a big deal, but this season the stakes are even higher than in recent seasons.

United can hold on to top spot in the Premier League if they avoid defeat on Merseyside, while victory for the Reds will send them first.

It is expected to be a cagey match and the onus will be on Alisson – who Neville believes is Liverpool’s “most important player” – to keep things tight at the back.



Neville has heaped praise on Alisson and Barnes
Neville has heaped praise on Alisson and Barnes

“If it was one of the modern day players, their most important player is Alisson,” said Neville.

“I think he’s transformed Liverpool from being a team that were nearly there to being a team that are there.”

Liverpool signed Alisson from Roma in the summer of 2018 for a fee which could rise to £66.8million – then a world-record fee for a goalkeeper.



Alisson shone as Liverpool beat United 2-0 in this fixture last season
Alisson shone as Liverpool beat United 2-0 in this fixture last season

Is Alisson Liverpool’s most important player? Have your say in the comments.

The Brazilian joined in the wake of Loris Karius’ nightmare in the Champions League final against Real Madrid.

Alisson quickly made a huge impression, restoring the confidence of the defence and helping steer the Reds to Champions League glory in 2019 and the Premier League title last season.

The 28-year-old has made 17 appearances in all competitions this season, conceding 14 goals and keeping six clean sheets.



Barnes battles for the ball against David Beckham
Barnes battles for the ball against David Beckham



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Meanwhile, Neville also recalled derby days of old when he was up against Anfield hero John Barnes – one of the finest ever English wingers.

“In my younger years, the one that would cause me the most problems would have been John Barnes,” the former Red Devils full-back told Sky Sports Super 6 .

“I just felt he was sensational at Liverpool.”

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