RVP, Wayne Rooney could decide Man United's fortunes against Liverpool

New Delhi: Louis van Gaal's Manchester United face an enticing test against bitter rivals Liverpool at Old Trafford on Sunday in a crucial Premier League fixture. The Manchester giants are on a five-match unbeaten run in the league and will bank on their premier forwards to decide the clash and take home three vital points.

Both Rooney and Van Persie have been influential for United and together they are forming a good partnership upfront which will please the manager. The duo have scored 11 goals between them in the EPL season so far and lead United's charge to establish themselves back amongst the top three in the table.

Van Persie has been fit and played 14 matches for United this season but his form was a worrying concern for the manager. After a dismal performance against Arsenal and lacking goals and sharpness for most part of the season, the Dutchman scored a resounding goal in the 3-0 win against Hull City back in November. Since then he has been finding form and confidence alike.

United were poor against Southampton last week, but Van Persie's knack for instinct won them the match. The Dutchman showed class in finding the net with both goals based on his supreme ability and finish.

Louis van Gaal stated on Saturday that Van Persie was lucky to regain his spot in the side due to lack of striking alternatives and that in the end is proving to be crucial for the club.

On the other hand skipper Wayne Rooney has led the side very well so far and his performances have been equally touching after an unimpressive run that had the inclusion of a red card too that saw him miss three crucial ties.

But since his form for England ticked last month, Rooney got his strides in the Premier League too and was highly influential in the wins against Arsenal, Hull City and Southampton. Rooney's ability to fall back, find players, make crucial passes and score goals has been evident in recent matches which in turn has helped United.

For Louis van Gaal this will be an interesting tie as he prepares for a fierce show against a top rival. Both United and Liverpool have been playing unimpressive football off late and though the former have held on to find results, the latter have been frustrated. Steven Gerrard has been Liverpool's best player so far and just like experienced Rooney and RVP, he will have a say in the tie.

In the last season under former manager David Moyes, United were blanked 0-3 at home by Liverpool and this time around Van Gaal will go out to address the shortcomings.

The Dutchman will hope his two cards in the form of RVP and Rooney outshine Gerrard and hand United their sixth consecutive win.