Wayne Rooney is absent on compassionate leave for the hosts, though it would have been unlikely for him to feature due to a knee problem.

Elsewhere, Phil Jones (knock) could return, but Anderson and Nani (both hamstring) remain injured.

For the visitors, Jose Enrique (hamstring) is likely to be out until February following his injury against QPR, so Stewart Downing could make an appearance in his place, otherwise Andre Wisdom could come into the side at right-back, with Glen Johnson slotting in on the left side.

Martin Kelly (knee) remains a long-term absentee, as does Fabio Borini (broken foot), though the striker is due back soon.

• Luis Suarez has the joint-second worst discipline in the league, having picked up seven yellow cards this season, while Paul Scholes is in the top 15 for foul play with six yellow cards from 14 appearances.

• United have the best record in the division when falling behind this season, having won 24 points from losing positions.

• Van Persie has scored five in his last six games against Liverpool, including the winner in the two sides’ meeting at Anfield earlier this season.

• Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard (pictured) has created the most goals this season in the Premier League, with eight assists.

• The Reds face a tough task at Old Trafford, with the hosts winning their past seven matches in a row at home, and are unbeaten in nine in the league.

• Brendan Rodgers’ side have only won one match when losing at half-time this season, after going in behind at the break on nine occasions.

• However, the Reds have not lost when winning at half-time this season, taking three points in six of seven matches.