Preview: Liverpool

Sub-plots: Unlike last season, this fixture is relatively issue-free, enabling both clubs to focus solely on the football. Of course, United hope to beat Liverpool for the second time this term and seal a first league double over the Merseysiders since the 2007/08 campaign.

Whistle-blower: Howard Webb will be the man in the middle at the weekend. The Yorkshire-based referee last took charge of this fixture in January 2011, during which he dismissed Steven Gerrard for a studs-up challenge on Michael Carrick.

Rivals watch: On Saturday, Tottenham make the short journey to QPR before Chelsea face Stoke City at the Britannia Stadium. Arsenal host Manchester City after matters end at Old Trafford on Sunday.

More: Scholes: It's historical | Blog: Liverpool or City?