One of the most heated rivalries in football is nearly upon us, Liverpool v Manchester United. The acid test for Jose Mourinho, as he manages United for the first time against their biggest enemies. Meanwhile, Jurgen Klopp will be looking to improve on The Reds’ recent record, where they have failed to beat United since March 2014 in the Premier League.
As with many big games, teams like to get their excuses in nice and early. This time around, the pre-match controversy surrounds the appointment of the man in black.
Liverpool fans are unhappy because Manchester-born Anthony Taylor will take charge of the crucial fixture next week.
Taylor, born six miles away from Old Trafford in Wythenshawe, has provoked reaction from The Kop, who are questioning both the quality of his refereeing and his place of birth.
Anthony Taylor from Manchester is to referee Liverpool v Manchester United in 7 days time?
Surely that deserves a Telegraph investigation.
— L.F.C URCHINS (@AnfieldUrchin) October 10, 2016
Anthony Taylor who is refereeing our game v the Mancs is from Manchester but has no allegiance to a club, however his wife is a Man Utd fan
— Kopite ® (@rome77lfc) October 11, 2016
Liverpool v Man Utd, the referee Anthony Taylor is from Manchester. Glad they got a neutral. lol.
— Scott Alderman (@Scott_Alderman) October 10, 2016
Anthony Taylor to Referee Liverpool v Man Utd and Liverpool fans not happy as he is from Greater Manchester, Deal With It you Scouse Fucks
— Nick Morris (@Nickmorris69) October 10, 2016
Taylor is said to support non-league side Altrincham FC. He has overseen seven Premier League matches this season, handing out a total of 23 yellow cards.