In the fourth edition of the Greatest Rivalries, I will be taking a look at the biggest match in the English footballing calendar, Manchester United versus Liverpool, ahead of the meeting of the two sides at Anfield on Saturday.

In footballing terms, the rivalry between England’s two biggest sides acquired prominence in the late 1950’s and early 1960’s, as this coincided with the beginning of an increase in success for both sides. Naturally, as the two teams were competing for major honours, the rivalry became more intense.

Before this, however, the rivalry had already started. This is partly due to the close proximity of the two cities. After all, Liverpool is situated only 42 miles west of Manchester.

In the early days the footballing rivalry owed a lot to a pre-existing inter-city rivalry. Liverpool in the late 19th Century and early 20th Century was one of the most important ports in the United Kingdom, whilst Manchester’s importance lay in the textiles industry.

However, upon the completion of the Manchester ship canal in 1894, Manchester gained access to the sea and was able to import goods. This is seen as an important factor in the revival of Manchester from a period of economic depression.

So with the two cities vying for economic superiority, the groundwork was laid for a rivalry that football would only extend. Manchester United versus Liverpool is a sporting manifestation of an economic rivalry, and as such the cities’ premier football teams are used to champion each cities' respective culture.

Today, however, the rivalry between the two sides is more concentrated on footballing success than economics. Liverpool are currently acknowledged as the most successful side in England, with 18 League Championship wins, seven FA Cup wins, and five European Cup successes.

This is in contrast to Manchester United’s 17 League Championships, 11 FA Cups and three wins in the European Cup. Liverpool also hold the upper hand in League Cup wins.

However, Manchester United currently hold the upper hand in the head-to-head record, with 59 wins and 41 draws. Liverpool have won 50 meetings between the sides.

Manchester United have Liverpool’s record 18 League Championships in their sights now, and without the doubt the bragging rights between the fans come down to Manchester United’s recent success, and Liverpool’s historic supremacy.

The teams have met in four major cup finals; the FA Cup in 1977 and 1996, and the League Cup in 1983 and 2003. The record in finals in two-a-piece, with United winning both (more important, I might add) FA Cup final meetings, and Liverpool winning the League Cup finals between the sides.

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