The Battle Of The Forwards: Wayne Rooney Vs Fernando Torres

In what is usually marked as the biggest game in club football, the league encounter between English rivals Liverpool FC and Manchester United is always a thrilling affair.

Sunday afternoon hopes for more of the same, but with Liverpool and United having a somewhat quiet start to the season, it could be one of the most important matches that could set either one of the mark ahead of what seems to a really tough season.

Both clubs were represented in Europe during the week, but like Ferguson did on Tuesday evening resting a few top names, Roy Hodgson followed although he was faced with a lower rated opposition.

Nevertheless, the risk paid off for the Liverpool coach while Sir Alex continues to answer critics.

Tuesday also witnessed another blow for United as Ecuadorian International Antonio Valencia was sidelined for months with a dislocated and fractured ankle.

Initially, many felt he could miss the season but earlier today, Sir Alex confirmed that the surgery on the ankle was successful and the winger could make a return as early as  February.

“Antonio had his operation and it was successful,” he said. “The break was clean and we were delighted to announce that. It was a major concern for us at the time.

“There’s ligament damage but we’re looking at the end of February, which is better than we thought on Tuesday night. He’s a strong boy and he’s very positive about it—being positive helps in these situations.”

Now shifting focus to the weekend, and to the titanic clash between Liverpool and Manchester United.

The one area of major concern going into the match would be the attack. Front man Fernando Torres is returning from a disappointing World Cup, but seems to be regaining fitness after an injury setback and is slowly reaching his form.

While on the other hand, Wayne Rooney, who also failed to shine in South Africa is going through a similar patch in terms of form; he scored for his country two weeks ago, but looked pretty ordinary in terms of his ability when representing United.

Rooney also in the spotlight following personal issues, which saw him been rested for the Everton clash—in what was a direct ploy by Ferguson to guard him from abuse from his former fans.

While both of these names will clearly be on the team sheet come Sunday, unless either one of these managers feel they would be brave enough an bench them, which I see as highly doubtful.

Both players will want and hope for Sunday's match to be a catalyst going forward with positive results, both individually and on a team effort.

United will most probably have Dimitar Berbatov paired with Wayne leading the attack, as Berbatov has found some form and will be key in holding the ball as United move forward.

Scholes in the center could be another challenge for Liverpool, as his ball distribution and movement could trouble the back line.

While United might have individually skilled players that could open up the Liverpool attack, Liverpool also pose a huge threat in the midfield.

The likes of Steven Gerrard, who seems to have found some great form especially in the last third, could be an even larger threat than Torres up front—his belief and passion added to his ability in breaking defenses and creating chances is what makes Liverpool who they are, together with having Cole in support.

Ngog looks raring to go this season; he's had some really good matches where he has lead the attack with great pride and looks determined to make his mark in England.

A definite loss to the attack in my opinion is Benayoun, who made the move to Stanford Bridge in the transfer window. He's always troubled the United back-four when brought on.

In the same regard, a Liverpool without the fight and passion of Javier Mascherano could be weaker than the squad that gave so many problems to United last season.

With so much attention on Chelsea, Manchester City and to a lesser degree Spurs, both Manchester United and Liverpool will hope they can ignite the old flames that once characterized English football.

While the result might not directly affect the outcome of the season, simply due to the fact that the match is played so early, Liverpool's dominance over United in terms of matches and United dominance in terms of League's in recent years, is a good enough motivation for both teams to go for it.

While it might be new turf for Roy Hogdson, Sir Alex will be well prepared for a tough match.

Nevertheless, all fans and supporters alike will be hoping for an action packed encounter; in my personal view, an open match—especially after the frustration of the defensive approach during the week in Europe from some of the lesser skilled teams.

Best of luck to both teams, and may the best man win.