Time for big money men to put on a United front

GAKPO OUTPUT IS PROOF OF HOW THIS FIXTURE CAN INSPIRE A REDS CAREER LIFT-OFF

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Florian Wirtz in action for their countries during the international break; below, Cody Gakpo scores against Manchester United at Anfield in 2023

IF EITHER Alexander Isak or Florian Wirtz have been trying to find the best way to truly announce themselves as Liverpool players, Sunday's visit from Manchester United means they could be in luck.

It was this game three years ago when Cody Gakpo struck twice to shake off what had been a difficult opening couple of months at Anfield, following his near-£40m move from PSV Eindhoven of January 2023.

Gakpo had already been on the scoresheet twice for the Reds, in February wins over Everton and Newcastle United, but it was his clinically-taken double in a historic hammering of their fierce rivals - 7-0, for those in need of a reminder - that really showcased what he could do to his new fanbase.

And while it would be a stretch to say Gakpo has become a prolific marksman at Anfield in his time since, returns of 16 and 18 goals in his last two full seasons have indicated his growing influence at Liverpool, particularly now he is a regular under Arne Slot in his favoured position on the left.