Liverpool team news update ahead of Sunday

Although any contest with our fiercest rivals is eagerly anticipated, this one has great relevance in the battle for places in the Premier League.

United know a victory would guarantee a spot in next term's UEFA Champions League, but there is also the significance of bidding for third spot, with last year's champions only three points behind and one goal worse off, in terms of goal difference.

Finishing above Slot's men will mean a lot to many Reds fans and it should be an intense atmosphere at Old Trafford this weekend.

Salah appeared to suffer a hamstring problem during the 3-1 win over Crystal Palace last time out and a man who has often been our nemesis in these games is set to miss out on a final appearance in the fixture.

The Egypt forward is leaving Anfield in the summer and, although he is being tipped to play again before the campaign is out, this clash comes to soon for him.

"As we know from Mo, [he is] always working incredibly hard," said Slot at his pre-match press conference.

"Usually, he is earlier fit than other players from a minor injury but not for Sunday."

Freddie Woodman kept goal against Palace and may be called upon again.

Alisson is battling to return, though, as Giorgi Mamardashvili remains sidelined due to an injury sustained in the Merseyside derby against Everton.

"It's a bonus for every player that comes back," said Slot. "Ali hasn't trained yet, [but is] very close to training, so I have to speak to the medical staff.

"We don't want to take any risks. But there is a difference between an [outfield] player and a goalkeeper in terms of coming back."

"He is very close but we, of course, don't want to take any risks because that's not what you want for any player."

The visitors are definitely without Giovanni Leoni, Conor Bradley, Wataru Endo and Hugo Ekitike, whilst Milos Kerkez is also facing a late fitness test.

"Milos has had some niggles, and left the training pitch on Wednesday. I expect him to train today or tomorrow."

Michael Carrick will provide an update on United's team news in Friday's press conference.