Two good, two bad from Liverpool's 0-0 draw with Man United

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  • Manchester United ceded the initiative in the Premier League title race after drawing 0-0 with Liverpool in a drab game at Anfield on Saturday.

    Despite his side having previously matched leaders Manchester City stride for stride, United manager Jose Mourinho resorted to familiar spoiling tactics that meant his team registered just one shot on target.

    The second successive goalless draw between the teams at Anfield preserved United’s seven-point advantage over Liverpool in the table.

    Here’s our two good and two bad performances from a dour encounter at Merseyside.

    HOT

    DAVID DE GEA

    One of the stand-out players at Anfield.

    The Spaniard pulled off a string of superb saves to keep Liverpool scoreless, most notably in the first half when he denied Joel Matip from an excellent scoring opportunity.

    He oozed class between the sticks and was a vital source of leadership to his defence as they curtailed the influence of Salah, Coutinho and Firmino.

    The 25-year-old consistently puts in world class performances and will be a vital thorn for Jose Mourinho’s side as the season progresses.

    DEJAN LOVREN

    The Croatian was at his menacing best, cutting down the impact of star man Romelu Lukaku and delivering a totemic display for the home side.

    He looked a composed presence throughout the match, with a pass accuracy of 89.5% and ten key clearances.

    He reduced Lukaku to 22 touches during the 90 minutes, and just one shot on goal – the Belgian’s lowest contribution so far this season.

    Despite criticism of Lovren, he demonstrated he can be a fulcrum for the Reds in big games with a virtuous display.

    NOT

    ASHLEY YOUNG

    Looked off the pace for large spells of the contest and failed to get involved in the action with Alberto Moreno and Emre Can solid down the left.

    Struck a poor cross in the 22th minute which was easily cleared by Salah, and put in a clumsy challenge after the break to concede a free-kick in a dangerous position.

    Should have been substituted earlier in the match, but Mourinho kept faith in the England international until the 90th minute.

    ROMELU LUKAKU

    Failed to live up to his sparkling goal-scoring reputation and endured a disappointing afternoon.

    Although he was well marshalled by Lovren, he was unable to get space or on the ball to force any sort of attacking threat throughout the contest.

    Made 22 touches during the entire match – including just one touch in the opening 20 minutes.

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