Michael Carrick has said that he hopes Manchester United’s 3-2 win over Liverpool will be a boost for Sir Alex Ferguson after his predecessor was taken to hospital before the game.
Ferguson had been due to watch the Premier League encounter at Old Trafford before falling ill ahead of a kick off, with the 84-year-old taken into medical care as a precaution.
“I haven’t got any updates so I don’t know the latest. I did hear about it before the game so I was aware about that,” Carrick said. “All I can say is I was very affected by the news. I hope he is all right. We hope him to be in good shape and we we wish him all the best and hopefully the result gives him a good boost.”
Having been installed as a short-term replacement for Ruben Amorim, Carrick has overseen wins over Manchester City, Arsenal, Chelsea and now Liverpool and looks likely to receive the job on a long-term basis after beating the Reds in a five-goal thriller to secure a return to the Champions League next season
Follow all the reaction from Man Utd v Liverpool, below
Man United v Liverpool LIVE: Latest Premier League updates
- FULL TIME! Kobbie Mainoo’s strike settles Man Utd’s thrilling win over Liverpool
- Richard Jolly: Man United are back where they belong and it’s all thanks to Carrick
- Sir Alex Ferguson said to be 'okay' after falling ill ahead of Man United vs Liverpool
- Michael Carrick on Champions League return: 'It felt off in the distance'
- Arne Slot on Sesko handball: 'We all know this season what the outcome for Liverpool is'
- Carrick hopes Man United win will be ‘a boost’ for Sir Alex Ferguson
The Jurgen Klopp blueprint Arne Slot must follow to rescue floundering Liverpool
13:22 , Flo CliffordJurgen Klopp had a capacity to make people feel good about themselves. One of the more unheralded ways came in difficult seasons. Klopp finished them well.
In 2020-21, Liverpool won their final five league matches, and eight of the last 10, to secure qualification for the Champions League. In 2022-23, Liverpool won seven of their last nine league games. They nevertheless ended up in the Europa League. In each case, however, Liverpool’s spring surge offered optimism the following campaign would be better. In each case, it was.
Now Arne Slot has a habit of saying next year will be superior to this. Perhaps he lacks Klopp’s powers of persuasion or maybe the evidence is less compelling but many are not convinced.
More from Richard Jolly:
The Jurgen Klopp blueprint Arne Slot must follow to rescue floundering Liverpool
Matheus Cunha backs Michael Carrick to become permanent Man Utd manager
12:21 , Flo CliffordMatheus Cunha said he believes Michael Carrick deserves to be appointed manager of Manchester United and said he is bringing the magic of Sir Alex Ferguson’s reign to the current squad.
Cunha scored the opening goal in Sunday’s 3-2 win over Liverpool, which guaranteed United’s place in next season’s Champions League and took their record under Carrick to 10 victories and just two defeats in 14 games.
The club are set to make a decision on Ruben Amorim’s permanent successor at the end of the season but Cunha has joined some of his teammates in giving Carrick his backing.
Matheus Cunha backs Michael Carrick to become permanent Man Utd manager
Kobbie Mainoo backs Michael Carrick for long-term role
11:00 , Richard Jolly, at Old TraffordKobbie Mainoo, who got the winner against Liverpool, supported Michael Carrick’s case to remain in charge by saying he was willing to “fight and die” for the former United manager.
Mainoo said: “He's played a huge part in it, all the confidence he gives all the players. You want to follow him and fight for him and die for him on the pitch."
Michael Carrick has made himself indispensable, it would be a bigger risk for Manchester United to replace him
10:00 , Flo CliffordManaging Manchester United is difficult, but too many of those to have tried in the last 13 years have made it look the impossible job. A few weeks into his tenure, Ruben Amorim had declared his side were possibly the worst team in the club’s history. A few months into what had seemed an interim stint, Michael Carrick appears entirely at home.
Senior Football Correspondent Richard Jolly explains why Carrick is the perfect fit for permanent manager:
Why it would be a bigger risk for Manchester United to now replace Michael Carrick
Michael Carrick admits being Man United manager ‘feels natural’
09:00 , Richard Jolly, at Old TraffordMichael Carrick said it feels natural to him to be managing Manchester United and that he loves being in charge of them.
United will make a decision whether to appoint Carrick as manager on a long-term basis in the summer and he enhanced his credentials by clinching Champions League qualification with a 3-2 win over Liverpool.
United have taken 32 points from 14 games since Carrick took charge, including victories over Manchester City, Arsenal, Chelsea and now Liverpool.
“It has been a good run, we have beaten some very very good teams,” said Carrick. “Sometimes we have won it in some ways, some in others.
“I love doing what I’m doing. It’s a great position for me to be in and it feels pretty natural, if I’m totally honest. I’m not being blase because it’s a difficult role, but it feels like I’ve been here a long time in, different times on and off, but I can understand what it brings and to be sat in this position is a good position to be in.”
Kobbie Mainoo backs Carrick for long-term Man United role: ‘You want to follow him’
Manchester United are back where they belong after beating Liverpool – and it’s all thanks to Michael Carrick
07:00 , Richard Jolly at Old TraffordEven signing a contract worth millions may not have been the highlight of Kobbie Mainoo’s week. The poster boy for the Michael Carrick revolution at Manchester United capped the transformation in both his fortunes and theirs with a goal whose significance was as much emotional as financial.
Man United are back where they belong – and it’s all thanks to Michael Carrick
Why was Benjamin Sekso ‘handball’ goal allowed to stand?
05:00 , Jamie BraidwoodThe Premier League has sought to explain why Benjamin Sekso’s goal stood following a VAR check on a possible handball. The VAR Stuart Attwell checked whether the ball brushed off Sesko’s hand before crossing the line.
An update from the Premier League Match Centre confirmed: “The referee’s call of goal was checked and confirmed by VAR – with it deemed there was no conclusive evidence that Sesko handled the ball before scoring.”
Has Bruno Fernandes equalled the Premier League assist record?
03:00 , Jamie BraidwoodBruno Fernandes is attempting to equal the Premier League assist record held by Thierry Henry and Kevin De Bruyne but the Manchester United captain was not credited for setting up Benjamin Sesko’s goal against rivals Liverpool at Old Trafford.
Fernandes, who is on 19 assists and is one behind Henry and De Bruyne’s single-season record of 20, headed back across goal before Liverpool goalkeeper Freddie Woodman punched the ball onto striker Sesko and the deflection took it over the line.
Fernandes was given the assist on the Premier League’s Fantasy Premier League (FPL) game, as he had the final attacking touch before Sesko put the ball in, even though Woodman had attempted to make the save in between.
Therefore, Fernandes will have one more Premier League assist in his FPL tally, but will remain behind Henry and De Bruyne as the Premier League officially does not award assists when there is a touch from a defending player.
Has Bruno Fernandes equalled the Premier League assist record?
77' GOAL! Mainoo sweeps in first-time as Man Utd retake lead [MUN 3-2 LIV]
01:00 , Jamie BraidwoodThe next goal felt like it would be decisive and arrived in the 77th minute in front of an elated Stretford End. Liverpool failed to effectively clear a cross and Mainoo ran onto the loose ball on the edge of the box, avoiding sliding Szoboszlai’s challenge to slam into the bottom left-hand corner.
Kobbie Mainoo rattles it in at the Stretford End! 💥 pic.twitter.com/3HDRLnyC4D
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) May 3, 2026
56' GOAL! Gakpo pounces on Lammens mistake to level [MUN 2-2 LIV]
Monday 4 May 2026 00:00 , Jamie BraidwoodLiverpool showed weakness but were handed a 56th-minute equaliser. Mac Allister read normally dependable Lammens’ woeful pass out from the back, with the midfielder playing for Szoboszlai to play a quick ball for Gakpo to score.
Gakpo pounces on the loose pass and makes no mistake! 😮 pic.twitter.com/376SnkyN6N
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) May 3, 2026
48' GOAL! Szoboszlai gives Liverpool a lifeline after half-time [MUN 2-1 LIV]
Sunday 3 May 2026 23:00 , Jamie BraidwoodLiverpool showed some fight, from Ibrahima Konate knocking Sesko into the advertising hoardings to Gakpo slamming narrowly wide, but Slot’s side still looked disjointed. Skipper Fernandes fired just wide as United pushed for another before a break that limping Sesko did not return from. Amad replaced him and saw a lax pass cut out by Szoboszlai just inside his own half inside two minutes of the restart, with the Liverpool midfielder confidently running at Harry Maguire before cutting away and scoring a low left-footed shot.
A fabulous solo goal from Dominik Szoboszlai and Liverpool are in the contest! 👏 pic.twitter.com/qy0XNLki2g
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) May 3, 2026
14' GOAL! Sesko doubles lead as Woodman punch deflects in [MUN 2-0 LIV]
Sunday 3 May 2026 22:00 , Jamie BraidwoodMichael Carrick’s side kept up the pressure and Freddie Woodman got his fingertips to a 14th minute prod on goal by Benjamin Sesko, but Liverpool’s third-choice goalkeeper could not deny him for long. United kept the move alive and Luke Shaw’s cross was headed back across goal by Bruno Fernandes, with Woodman only able to push into the bundling striker. Sesko wheeled off in celebration and further cheers greeted the award of the goal following a lengthy VAR check into a potential handball by the Slovenia striker.
Manchester United are FLYING!
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) May 3, 2026
Benjamin Šeško doubles their advantage! 🔴 pic.twitter.com/MNQuFma3kO
6' GOAL! Cunha fires Man Utd into early lead against rivals [MUN 1-0 LIV]
Sunday 3 May 2026 21:00 , Jamie BraidwoodSir Alex Ferguson was unable to watch Sunday’s match having felt unwell before kick-off and being taken to hospital. Manchester United fans chanted his name towards the end of a first half that their side began at breakneck pace. Matheus Cunha, back in the side after a hip complaint, saw an initial effort from a half-cleared corner blocked but managed to get another away, striking into the ground and off Alexis Mac Allister to spark bedlam in the sixth minute.
"Just feel the place!" 🔊
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) May 3, 2026
Matheus Cunha gets Man Utd off to a DREAM start! pic.twitter.com/i3UMWo7eQK
Arne Slot: Liverpool identified Man Utd's strengths but conceded from them
Sunday 3 May 2026 20:30 , Jamie BraidwoodArne Slot, speaking to Sky Sports, said Liverpool weren’t able to control Manchester United’s strengths and identified set-pieces and counter-attacks. Liverpool conceded from those situations twice in the first half.
“You have to know where to lose the ball if you play against United. They are really strong when they play into the middle. They have so many fast players, Bruno Fernandes to hurt you in transition and that's exactly what happened with the second goal. That is what happens. We were 2-0 down, came back in the second-half to 2-2 and then we shut off and immediately conceded the goal."
Michael Carrick confirms nature of Benjamin Sesko injury
Sunday 3 May 2026 20:00 , Jamie BraidwoodBenjamin Sekso was taken off at half-time after scoring Manchester United’s second goal. He received a shove from Ibrahima Konate that resulted in him crashing into the advertising hoardings.
“He's been carrying a shin problem for some time, he got pushed and caught the bit that's been causing him some problems."
Michael Carrick hopes Man United win will be ‘a boost’ for Sir Alex Ferguson after former manager taken ill
Sunday 3 May 2026 19:50 , Richard Jolly, at Old TraffordMichael Carrick has said that he hopes Manchester United’s 3-2 win over Liverpool will be a boost for Sir Alex Ferguson after his predecessor was taken to hospital before the game.
Carrick worked under Ferguson after joining as a player in 2006, and is now impressing on the touchline he once occupied. Victory over Liverpool, secured by Kobbie Mainoo’s late goal, ensures that Manchester United will be back in next season’s Champions League.
And Carrick hoped that it will serve as pleasing news for his old boss. “I haven’t got any updates so I don’t know the latest. I did hear about it before the game so I was aware about that,” he said of Ferguson.
“All I can say is I was very affected by it the news. I hope he is all right. We hope him to be in good shape and we wish him all the best and hopefully the result gives him a good boost.”
Carrick hopes Man United win will be ‘boost’ for Ferguson after falling ill
Manchester United are back where they belong after beating Liverpool – and it’s all thanks to Michael Carrick
Sunday 3 May 2026 19:45 , Richard Jolly at Old TraffordEven signing a contract worth millions may not have been the highlight of Kobbie Mainoo’s week. The poster boy for the Michael Carrick revolution at Manchester United capped the transformation in both his fortunes and theirs with a goal whose significance was as much emotional as financial.
United clinched their return to the European elite. “Qualifying for the Champions League felt off in the distance at one point,” said Carrick. He has made it a reality. And though a draw was all his side required, the winner Mainoo drilled in completed a double over Liverpool, ensured a comeback from Arne Slot’s side that was simultaneously inspired and illogical was in vain, and gave United further reasons to appoint Carrick. “I love doing what I am doing,” he said. “It feels pretty natural.”
Man United are back where they belong – and it’s all thanks to Michael Carrick
Michael Carrick: Champions League return 'felt off in the distance'
Sunday 3 May 2026 19:30 , Jamie BraidwoodMichael Carrick’s 10 wins in 14 games, with victories over Liverpool, Manchester City and Arsenal, has taken Manchester United back into the Champions League with three games to spare. Proud?
He tells Sky Sports: “Yes in some ways the work that has been done, the way the players have played, we can take a lot from. Champions League felt off in the distance at one point, to be honest, a lot of work has been done to get it sealed with games to go. It's not something we celebrate really, we just want to finish high up in the league. Huge credit goes to the players and staff.
“In our league it is encouraging to see how we've done so well, we want to keep improving and we can't underestimate what the players have done.”
Slot on Sesko handball: 'We all know this season what the outcome for Liverpool is'
Sunday 3 May 2026 18:59 , Jamie BraidwoodArne Slot suggests VAR was against Liverpool at Manchester United after Benjamin Sesko’s goal was not disallowed. The Premier League Match Centre said there was “no conclusive evidence that Sesko handled the ball before scoring”.
Slot rejected that, and said: “Yeah, if it is a touch it is never a lot of course. If it was a touch, it should have been disallowed. But I want to focus on how we conceded that second goal because that's that's where we can do better. But in the end, then if you concede it and the VAR is going to check it, then we all know this season what the outcome for Liverpool is.”
Dominik Szoboszlai: 'After the first half we shouldn't be happy at all'
Sunday 3 May 2026 18:29 , Jamie BraidwoodLiverpool midfielder Dominik Szoboszlai, speaking to Sky Sports: “Not good, we go home with zero points and after the first half we shouldn't be happy at all, we should be who we were at the start of the second half because that's what we showed properly who we are.
“Before the game when you speak about set pieces, don't concede and then after I don't know when the first goal happened, you concede from a set piece, and then also you talk about counter-attacks and then the second goal happens from a counter-attack. I don't know, we have to be more focused, we have to take care more of the details and in the end hopefully the luck is going to stay on our side.”
Roy Keane: 'We saw the best and the worst of Man United'
Sunday 3 May 2026 18:14 , Jamie BraidwoodFormer Manchester United captain Roy Keane, speaking on Sky Sports.
“We've seen the best and worst of United. They scored three goals. But they lost momentum. At half-time you're thinking you want to see a complete United performance. Not bits and bobs. They gifted the goals. They are the worries for United. That's the bigger picture when competing for the Champions League."
Sir Alex Ferguson 'okay' after falling ill ahead of Man United vs Liverpool
Sunday 3 May 2026 17:59 , Jamie BraidwoodSir Alex Ferguson was taken to hospital after feeling unwell at Old Trafford ahead of Manchester United’s Premier League match with Liverpool.
Manchester United declined to comment when approached by The Independent, but Ferguson is thought to be okay and recovering from the incident.
Ferguson taken to hospital after falling ill ahead of Man United vs Liverpool
Kobbie Mainoo: 'Credit to players and manager that we have turned it around'
Sunday 3 May 2026 17:44 , Jamie BraidwoodManchester United’s Kobbie Mainoo is delighted to have marked a wonderful week with a new contract and a winner against Liverpool at Old Trafford. What a turnaround for him, and for United after the way they started the season.
“To turn it around the way we have done, it's a credit to the players and the manager. We are just looking forward and still need to finish the season strong,” he tells Sky Sports.
"We want to just keep on winning and winning. It was difficult, of course, any time you're not playing football. I just tried to look forward as much as possible, keep working hard and keep my head down to get these things from it.”
"I used to dream of times like this"
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) May 3, 2026
Kobbie Mainoo is feeling blessed after scoring the winner against Liverpool ❤️ pic.twitter.com/ZpXLjW1p8z
A fightback from Liverpool... but not enough for Arne Slot
Sunday 3 May 2026 17:35 , Jamie BraidwoodIt was dismal stuff for Liverpool at half-time, 2-0 down to Manchester United and looking at an afternoon that could have got much, much worse. There was a decent fightback after the break; although they were gifted both of their goals, Arne Slot’s side managed to show some resilience and flipped the game on its head.
Champions League is still not secure for them. But one more win, from their final three games against Chelsea, Aston Villa and Brentford, will be enough.
What an afternoon for Michael Carrick
Sunday 3 May 2026 17:31 , Jamie BraidwoodThe last time Manchester United did the double over Liverpool Michael Carrick was in the away end at Anfield in January 2016.
When he took over in January they were in the bottom half of the table. But Carrick has led a remarkable transformation at Old Trafford. They are heading back into the Champions League and will be finishing third this season, ahead of a Liverpool side they finished 42 points behind when they won the title last season.
FULL TIME! Manchester United 3-2 Liverpool
Sunday 3 May 2026 17:28 , Richard Jolly, at Old TraffordFrenetic stuff and terrific entertainment. Over 90 minutes, United did more, first winning the game, then giving away their lead. But what a week Mainoo has had - first a new contract, now a winner against Liverpool.
FULL TIME! Manchester United 3-2 Liverpool
Sunday 3 May 2026 17:27 , Jamie Braidwood- Manchester United have qualified for the Champions League for the first time since the 2022/23 season
- They complete a first Premier League double over Liverpool since 2015/16
- And that was a cracker. Breathless and frantic. Great entertainment
FULL TIME! Manchester United 3-2 Liverpool
Sunday 3 May 2026 17:26 , Jamie BraidwoodTHAT’S IT!
Manchester United 3-2 Liverpool
Sunday 3 May 2026 17:25 , Jamie Braidwood90+5 mins: Fernandes wins a throw-in and Old Trafford erupts! Seconds to go. And now United will bring off their captain to a standing ovation.
Manchester United 3-2 Liverpool
Sunday 3 May 2026 17:25 , Jamie Braidwood90+4 mins: Jones wins a free-kick and Szoboszlai will cross... Casemiro heads away.
Manchester United 3-2 Liverpool
Sunday 3 May 2026 17:24 , Jamie Braidwood90+3 mins: Van Dijk is forward for Liverpool... Chiesa’s cross into the box beats everyone.
Manchester United 3-2 Liverpool
Sunday 3 May 2026 17:22 , Jamie Braidwood90+1 mins: Fernandes is caught from behind by Mac Allister as he shot at goal in the box... penalty? VAR says no. Liverpool attack but Kerkez’s cross trickles through to Lammens.
Manchester United 3-2 Liverpool
Sunday 3 May 2026 17:21 , Jamie Braidwood89 mins: Dorgu shoots wide after Casemiro led the counter-attack. There will be FIVE minutes of stoppage time.
Manchester United 3-2 Liverpool
Sunday 3 May 2026 17:19 , Jamie Braidwood88 mins: United are a few minutes away from sealing their place in next season’s Champions League. This has just been a properly fun game of football, though. Can we have another 15 minutes?
Manchester United 3-2 Liverpool
Sunday 3 May 2026 17:17 , Jamie Braidwood86 mins: Almost a stunning run down the left from Ngumoha before he is forced wide by Maguire. He left Casemiro and Dalot for dust.
Manchester United 3-2 Liverpool
Sunday 3 May 2026 17:15 , Jamie Braidwood85 mins: Liverpool are on top again and Carrick is trying to work out how to set United up to close this out. Gakpo shoots straight at Lammens.
Man Utd 3-2 Liverpool
Sunday 3 May 2026 17:13 , Jamie Braidwood83 mins: CLOSE! Oooh. Almost quality from another youngster in Rio Ngumoha. He cuts in from the left and fizzes a shot just wide. Lammens was stranded.
WATCH! Man Utd retake lead against Liverpool with late Mainoo strike
Sunday 3 May 2026 17:12 , Jamie Braidwood82 mins: Again, the defending from Liverpool leaves a lot of questions. But the quality from Mainoo is there!
Kobbie Mainoo rattles it in at the Stretford End! 💥 pic.twitter.com/3HDRLnyC4D
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) May 3, 2026
Man Utd 3-2 Liverpool
Sunday 3 May 2026 17:11 , Jamie Braidwood80 mins: Suddenly United have belief again... Cunha leads the break but Jones wins the ball back from the Dorgu.
This is chaos! Fernandes slides in on the back of Szoboszlai and is booked. The United captain catches Szoboszlai’s ankle...
GOAL! Man Utd 3-2 Liverpool (MAINOO 77')
Sunday 3 May 2026 17:08 , Jamie BraidwoodWOW! UNITED RETAKE THE LEAD AND THE LOCAL LAD HAS DONE IT!
It’s a wonderful finish from Mainoo! The clearance from Mac Allister falls to the edge of the box and Mainoo sweeps home! He was not in the Manchester United team six months ago, but what a moment for him now!
Manchester United 2-2 Liverpool
Sunday 3 May 2026 17:07 , Jamie Braidwood75 mins: Szoboszlai hits the wall...
Manchester United 2-2 Liverpool
Sunday 3 May 2026 17:04 , Jamie Braidwood74 mins: A chance for Szoboszlai from a long-range free-kick.
Manchester United 2-2 Liverpool
Sunday 3 May 2026 17:03 , Richard Jolly, at Old Trafford72 mins: It feels like there is a winner in this one, in part because both show vulnerabilities whenever anyone attacks them. Maybe United are slightly the likelier to win it, if only because they have slightly more on the bench.
Manchester United 2-2 Liverpool
Sunday 3 May 2026 17:02 , Jamie Braidwood72 mins: WHAT A CHANCE! A free header for Casemiro, right in front of goal from a wide free-kick from Fernandes. You expect the net to bulge but it’s straight at Woodman!
Manchester United 2-2 Liverpool
Sunday 3 May 2026 17:01 , Jamie Braidwood70 mins: Now Szoboszlai’s corner flashes across goal. Manchester United have never lost a Premier League match at Old Trafford after leading at half-time, the last time they happened being back in 1987. We may witness some history if Liverpool can turn this around, and they were 2-0 down.
Manchester United 2-2 Liverpool
Sunday 3 May 2026 16:59 , Jamie Braidwood68 mins: OFF THE LINE! Szoboszlai’s free-kick causes chaos and Lammens is forced to kick off the line with his feet! It fell to Mac Allister, I think, just in front of goal.
Manchester United 2-2 Liverpool
Sunday 3 May 2026 16:57 , Jamie Braidwood66 mins: Liverpool may sense that they can win this game but with Isak, Salah and Ekitike all out, their remaining options on the bench are limited. Other than Ngumoha and Chiesa, the rest are unproven.
Manchester United 2-2 Liverpool
Sunday 3 May 2026 16:55 , Jamie Braidwood64 mins: This way, now that way. A long ball forward releases Mbeumo, after Van Dijk stepped up. Kerkez, who is on for Robertson, got across well to block.
Manchester United 2-2 Liverpool
Sunday 3 May 2026 16:53 , Jamie Braidwood63 mins: Liverpool are now overrunning United in midfield and Casemiro and Mainoo are being pulled apart. It’s chaos in the United defence and Gakpo has another sight of goal, but his shot is deflected over!
Manchester United 2-2 Liverpool
Sunday 3 May 2026 16:51 , Jamie Braidwood60 mins: Manchester United and Liverpool should play ‘inconsequential’ games against each other more often!
Stunning for United to throw this away so quickly after half-time!
Gakpo pounces on the loose pass and makes no mistake! 😮 pic.twitter.com/376SnkyN6N
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) May 3, 2026
GOAL! Manchester United 2-2 Liverpool (GAKPO 55')
Sunday 3 May 2026 16:47 , Richard Jolly, at Old TraffordA comeback no one saw coming. Suddenly, Liverpool are level. And Cody Gakpo, who has been stuck on 49 goals for them for 13 games, has his half century
GOAL! Manchester United 2-2 Liverpool (GAKPO 55')
Sunday 3 May 2026 16:46 , Jamie BraidwoodCALAMITY AT THE BACK! SOMEHOW LIVERPOOL ARE LEVEL!
What has happened to Carrick’s side? Lammens passes the ball straight out to Mac Allister. Szoboszlai then sets up Gakpo and it’s 2-2!
First Amad Diallo, now Senne Lammens! United have gifted Liverpool a route back into this at Old Trafford. They couldn’t, could they?
Manchester United 2-1 Liverpool
Sunday 3 May 2026 16:46 , Jamie Braidwood55 mins: Wirtz drags a shot wide. It was tame, but more encouragement for Liverpool.
Manchester United 2-1 Liverpool
Sunday 3 May 2026 16:45 , Jamie Braidwood54 mins: Almost exquisite from Mbeumo as Fernandes pulls the ball back and he flicks against the post. I think Fernandes was offside, though, from Casemiro’s pass.
WATCH! Szoboszlai gives Liverpool a lifeline against rivals Man Utd
Sunday 3 May 2026 16:43 , Jamie Braidwood51 mins: A Salah-esque goal from Szoboszlai.
A fabulous solo goal from Dominik Szoboszlai and Liverpool are in the contest! 👏 pic.twitter.com/qy0XNLki2g
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) May 3, 2026
Manchester United 2-1 Liverpool
Sunday 3 May 2026 16:41 , Jamie Braidwood49 mins: Hmmm. The mood has changed as those Liverpool fans in the corner have something to get their teeth into now.
The last time Liverpool came from 2-0 down at half-time in the Premier League was at Manchester City in 2008.
Manchester United 2-1 Liverpool
Sunday 3 May 2026 16:40 , Richard Jolly, at Old TraffordDominik Szoboszlai has mounted a one-man effort to save Liverpool's season at times this season, so that goal felt quite apt.
GOAL! Manchester United 2-1 Liverpool (SZOBOSZALI 48')
Sunday 3 May 2026 16:38 , Jamie BraidwoodOH THAT’S A LOVELY GOAL! Liverpool have a lifeline!
It’s poor from United - they switched off, and Amad Diallo, just on, was sleeping as he gave the ball away. But Szoboszlai weaves his way through and slots the finish past Lammens.
Game on! Amad held his hand up in apology.
BACK UNDERWAY! Manchester United 2-0 Liverpool
Sunday 3 May 2026 16:37 , Jamie BraidwoodA change at the break for Manchester United: Amad Diallo is on for Benjamin Sesko, who appears to have picked up a knock.
And a very early chance for Mbeumo after Van Dijk misses the header from kick-off. Liverpool still look shaky
Liverpool look 'frightened' against Man United, says Roy Keane
Sunday 3 May 2026 16:35 , Jamie BraidwoodOn Sky Sports, Roy Keane has accused Liverpool of looking “frightened”.
"Liverpool are like a five-a-side team but a bad five-a-side team,” the former Manchester United captain said.
"Not athletic, giving away the ball cheaply. United look like they can score every time they go forward."
Has Bruno Fernandes equalled the Premier League assist record?
Sunday 3 May 2026 16:31 , Jamie BraidwoodBruno Fernandes is attempting to equal the Premier League assist record held by Thierry Henry and Kevin De Bruyne but the Manchester United captain was not credited for setting up Benjamin Sesko’s goal against rivals Liverpool at Old Trafford.
Fernandes, who is on 19 assists and is one behind Henry and De Bruyne’s single-season record of 20, headed back across goal before Liverpool goalkeeper Freddie Woodman punched the ball onto striker Sesko and the deflection took it over the line.
Fernandes was given the assist on the Premier League’s Fantasy Premier League (FPL) game, as he had the final attacking touch before Sesko put the ball in, even though Woodman had attempted to make the save in between.
But the definition of an assist in FPL, which is played by millions of fans around the world, and official Premier League records is different, and there was a change to FPL rules that meant an assist could still be awarded if there is only one defensive touch before the ball reaches the goalscorer.
For now, therefore, Fernandes will have one more Premier League assist in his FPL tally, but will remain behind Henry and De Bruyne as the Premier League officially does not award assists when there is a touch from a defending player.
Has Bruno Fernandes equalled the Premier League assist record?
Sir Alex Ferguson ‘taken to hospital’ after falling ill ahead of Man United vs Liverpool
Sunday 3 May 2026 16:25 , Harry Latham-CoyleSir Alex Ferguson has reportedly been taken to hospital after feeling unwell at Old Trafford ahead of Manchester United’s Premier League match with Liverpool.
The Daily Mail reports that Ferguson has been taken into hospital purely as a precautionary measure, with officials at Manchester United optimistic that he will soon be able to recuperate at home.
The Sun reports that he was first attended to by medics in the Stretford End tunnel before being taken to an ambulance and checked over inside the vehicle, where he was sat up and reported to be “okay”.
Manchester United declined to comment when approached by The Independent.
Ferguson ‘taken to hospital’ after falling ill ahead of Man United vs Liverpool
HALF TIME! Manchester United 2-0 Liverpool
Sunday 3 May 2026 16:21 , Jamie BraidwoodVery enjoyable for Manchester United. They lead 2-0 and are heading back to the Champions League. For Liverpool, though, that was grim viewing.
Manchester United 2-0 Liverpool
Sunday 3 May 2026 16:17 , Jamie Braidwood45+1 mins: Maguire requires some treatment after taking a shot from Mac Allister in the head. We’re into four minutes of added time.
Manchester United 2-0 Liverpool
Sunday 3 May 2026 16:15 , Jamie Braidwood44 mins: Another near-calamity at the back for Liverpool. Konate could not clear and it’s left for Woodman to kick away with his feet.
Manchester United 2-0 Liverpool
Sunday 3 May 2026 16:13 , Richard Jolly, at Old Trafford43 mins: A glimpse at the bench hardly offers Liverpool hope of a comeback. It looks desperately weak, especially considering they spent £450m last summer. They only have 34 Premier League starts between them this season and 31 of those were by defenders Milos Kerkez and Joe Gomez.
Manchester United 2-0 Liverpool
Sunday 3 May 2026 16:12 , Jamie Braidwood41 mins: All of Liverpool’s shots are coming from range. Gravenberch shoots down the throat of Lammens: a simple save.
Manchester United 2-0 Liverpool
Sunday 3 May 2026 16:09 , Jamie Braidwood38 mins: Manchester United fans are currently enjoying themselves by signing about Steven Gerrard slipping on his you know what against Chelsea 12 years ago.
Manchester United 2-0 Liverpool
Sunday 3 May 2026 16:05 , Jamie Braidwood34 mins: Florian Wirtz is holding his ankle and appears to be in some pain as Liverpool try to respond. Manchester United are winning the 50-50 duels, however.
Manchester United 2-0 Liverpool
Sunday 3 May 2026 16:04 , Richard Jolly, at Old Trafford33 mins: It's Casemiro's penultimate game at Old Trafford and his is the name that has been sung the most. Last season, in this fixture, he was culpable for two goals and taken off for Toby Collyer. It is quite a turnaround in his fortunes.
Manchester United 2-0 Liverpool
Sunday 3 May 2026 16:01 , Jamie Braidwood30 mins: This was the Premier League’s explanation on the VAR check for Sesko’s goal.
“The referee’s call of goal was checked and confirmed by VAR – with it deemed there was no conclusive evidence that Sesko handled the ball before scoring.”
Manchester United 2-0 Liverpool
Sunday 3 May 2026 15:59 , Jamie Braidwood28 mins: Florian Wirtz has barely been mentioned so far. The German gets a sight of goal, though, as he comes in from the left. It would have taken a fine shot to beat Lammens but he curls wide anyway.
Jamie Carragher, meanwhile, is calling Liverpool “soft and weak” on Sky Sports.
Manchester United 2-0 Liverpool
Sunday 3 May 2026 15:58 , Jamie Braidwood27 mins: Lovely football from United! They slice through Liverpool on the counter and Mbeumo crosses back for the arriving Fernandes. A chance... but he volleys wide!
Manchester United 2-0 Liverpool
Sunday 3 May 2026 15:57 , Jamie Braidwood26 mins: Casemiro, another United player who has suffered plenty of defeats against Liverpool in recent years, clatters into Curtis Jones in midfield. He looks on course with a victory in his last game against Liverpool.
Manchester United 2-0 Liverpool
Sunday 3 May 2026 15:55 , Jamie Braidwood24 mins: Gakpo whistles a shot just wide form outside the box! That was close. Lammens may have had it covered. It looked in on first viewing!
WATCH: Sesko doubles lead as Woodman punch deflects in
Sunday 3 May 2026 15:53 , Jamie Braidwood22 mins: Konate barges Sesko out of play while chasing back and the striker slides down the bank and crashes into the advertising hoardings. Ouch.
This is the goal that has United sitting pretty against their bitter rivals.
Manchester United are FLYING!
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) May 3, 2026
Benjamin Šeško doubles their advantage! 🔴 pic.twitter.com/MNQuFma3kO
Manchester United 2-0 Liverpool
Sunday 3 May 2026 15:50 , Jamie Braidwood19 mins: If you’re Manchester United you are smelling blood. Liverpool have inflicted plenty of pain on their rivals in recent years... now they have a chance for revenge.
GOAL GIVEN! Manchester United 2-0 Liverpool (SESKO 14')
Sunday 3 May 2026 15:48 , Richard Jolly, at Old TraffordGoal given. Benjamin Sesko now has seven goals under Michael Carrick, 10 in 15 since Ruben Amorim left. More than most, he has benefited from a change in management.
VAR CHECK! Manchester United 2-0 Liverpool
Sunday 3 May 2026 15:47 , Jamie BraidwoodThe ball brushes against Sesko’s fingers as it goes in... but it’s hard to tell.
GOAL! Manchester United 2-0 Liverpool (SESKO 14')
Sunday 3 May 2026 15:45 , Jamie BraidwoodUNITED ARE FLYING! DISASTER AT THE BACK FOR LIVERPOOL!
Sesko had a big chance in front of goal after United flew forward but Woodman made the save. It’s worked back out side and swung into the box. Fernandes makes a brilliant back-post header to nod the ball back across goal, and Woodman can only palm the ball back into Sesko’s path.
The striker is in the right place at the right time to double the lead, but VAR are having a look!
WATCH: Cunha fires Man Utd into early lead against rivals Liverpool
Sunday 3 May 2026 15:43 , Jamie Braidwood12 mins: A scrappy opener but Manchester United will not care.
"Just feel the place!" 🔊
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) May 3, 2026
Matheus Cunha gets Man Utd off to a DREAM start! pic.twitter.com/i3UMWo7eQK
Manchester United 1-0 Liverpool
Sunday 3 May 2026 15:42 , Jamie Braidwood11 mins: This rather looks like an ideal set-up for Manchester United now, as they can sit back on their lead and look to counter Liverpool on the break. Liverpool will need to find some teeth without several leading attackers - Salah, Ekitike and Isak - and Heaven does well to guide the ball behind with Szoboszlai pressing.
Manchester United 1-0 Liverpool
Sunday 3 May 2026 15:39 , Jamie Braidwood8 mins: A half-chance at the back post for Gakpo, but he heads wide. United had pinned Liverpool deep into their own half in the minutes before the goal, they couldn’t get out.
GOAL! Manchester United 1-0 Liverpool (CUNHA 6')
Sunday 3 May 2026 15:38 , Richard Jolly, at Old TraffordMatheus Cunha has not scored huge numbers of goals in his debut season at Old Trafford but he has got quite a few in big games. He has scored against Arsenal, Chelsea and now Liverpool.
GOAL! Manchester United 1-0 Liverpool (CUNHA 6')
Sunday 3 May 2026 15:37 , Jamie BraidwoodA RAPID START FROM UNITED AND CUNHA SCRAMBLES THE BALL IN!
Liverpool fail to deal the corner. Cunha takes a swing, it’s blocked by Gravenberch but falls to the Brazilian. Cunha shoots again and it is deflected in off the back of Mac Allister!
Old Trafford erupts!
Manchester United 0-0 Liverpool
Sunday 3 May 2026 15:35 , Jamie Braidwood4 mins: It’s messy from Liverpool in defence, failing to clear. Mbeumo’s cross looks for Sesko but it’s just too high.
Manchester United 0-0 Liverpool
Sunday 3 May 2026 15:34 , Richard Jolly, at Old Trafford3 mins: Two false nines for Liverpool, in Wirtz and Szoboszlai. Whereas the expectation was that Cody Gakpo would lead the line.
Manchester United 0-0 Liverpool
Sunday 3 May 2026 15:33 , Jamie Braidwood2 mins: First moment of danger for Liverpool. Fernandes puts in a dangerous cross but Jones is able to get across and clear ahead of Sesko, who was offside. Before then, Van Dijk cleared another cross from Fernandes.
Manchester United 0-0 Liverpool
Sunday 3 May 2026 15:32 , Jamie Braidwood1 min: Liverpool seem to be set up 4-4-2 with Gakpo on the left and Wirtz up front, supported by Szoboszlai.
Manchester United 0-0 Liverpool
Sunday 3 May 2026 15:30 , Jamie BraidwoodKICK-OFF! Old Trafford feels up to this. It’s a big test of Liverpool with so many injuries and changes. We are underway.
Here we go! Manchester United v Liverpool
Sunday 3 May 2026 15:26 , Jamie BraidwoodThe players are in the tunnel. This is always a big fixture, whatever the stakes, and you can sense the anticipation. Kick-off is coming next!
Reminder of Man Utd v Liverpool team news and how to watch
Sunday 3 May 2026 15:26 , Jamie Braidwood- Manchester United XI: Lammens; Dalot, Heaven, Maguire, Shaw; Casemiro, Mainoo; Mbeumo, Fernandes, Cunha; Sesko
- Liverpool XI: Woodman; Jones, Konate, Van Dijk, Robertson; Gravenberch, Mac Allister; Frimpong, Szoboszlai, Wirtz; Gakpo
It will be shown on Sky Sports Main Event and Sky Sports Premier League. Sky customers can stream the match on Now TV or Sky Go
Michael Carrick relishing test against Liverpool as Man Utd boss
Sunday 3 May 2026 15:22 , Jamie BraidwoodSpeaking to Sky Sports
“We know this is an important game, it's a massive game, regardless of league or anything else, what's going on. I've been close to it for so long. Today's a new game, different game, but it's an important one. If we can win today, it'll be big for us.
“The boys have done some great work to put the results together to be here, so it gives us a game to go at today and then look forward to as a one-off game, knowing that we're in a good position in the league.
“I'm expecting them to try and take the ball and try and take more possession. That's a challenge for us to be compact and look dangerous and take the ball as well. It'll be a tight game. It's two good teams in many ways, but we're looking forward to it.”
Diego Forlan makes return to Old Trafford
Sunday 3 May 2026 15:18 , Jamie BraidwoodFormer Manchester United striker Diego Forlan is back at Old Trafford today with his family, sparking some memories of the Uruguayan’s double at Anfield in 2003.
Arne Slot believes one more win would secure Champions League
Sunday 3 May 2026 15:12 , Jamie Braidwood“We have four opportunities to do so. Tough opponents, but we didn't expect to be this close two or three weeks ago.
“But a year ago we didn't expect to be in this position, so, let's take it just game by game and take this game that's coming up first.
“It's the first chance for us to hopefully get that win over the line that we need to qualify for Champions League next season.”
How Manchester United and Liverpool can confirm Champions League today
Sunday 3 May 2026 15:05 , Jamie BraidwoodBoth Manchester United and Liverpool are virtually confirmed to be playing in the Champions League to play in the Champions League.
- It will be official for Manchester United if they pick up a point against Liverpool, or if Bournemouth fail to beat Crystal Palace
- For Liverpool, it will be official if they beat Manchester United and Bournemouth also fail to win. That’s after Brighton lost yesterday
Arne Slot explains why Liverpool’s Alexander Isak misses out against Man United
Sunday 3 May 2026 15:00 , Jamie BraidwoodArne Slot confirmed Alexander Isak was ruled out of Liverpool’s trip to Manchester United due to a minor injury in the latest setback to the record signing’s stop-start season.
Slot, who is also without first-choice goalkeeper Alisson Becker, told Sky Sports: “Alex, it wasn't much, but unfortunately it was too much for him to be be able to play. And Alisson hasn't trained with us yet, so that that makes it quite simple.
“We're hoping for him to be ready next week but we have to wait and see how the week will go, and the same can be said about Alex. We're hoping to have him back next week, but that's small margins, as it always is.”
Slot dismissed a suggestion from former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher than Isak’s injury was a “surprise” and said it has been the story of their season.
“I don't think in general it's a surprise after we pick up injuries, that has happened so many times this season, that no one can be surprised that it happened now again.”
Join the Miguel Delaney: Inside Football newsletter
Sunday 3 May 2026 14:55 , Miguel DelaneyThe football fixture calendar is relentless, and the news cycle feels nonstop – spanning everything from results and matches to tactics, competitions, transfers, politics, global expansion, and even the geopolitics and greater forces now reshaping how the very sport is played.
In short, there’s a lot to keep up with – and to make sense of. That’s where my newsletter Inside Football comes in.
Landing in your inbox every Friday, Inside Football delivers insight, opinion, and the under-the-radar details you love.
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The Steven Gerrard advice that convinced Mohamed Salah to leave Liverpool
Sunday 3 May 2026 14:45 , Richard Jolly, at Old TraffordMohamed Salah has revealed that Steven Gerrard gave him advice that helped persuade him to leave Liverpool.
The Egyptian will go in the summer, a year before the end of his contract, having spent nine years at Anfield after following Gerrard’s suggestion that he went on his own terms.
But Salah, who turns 34 in the summer, insists he is in good shape, can still offer a lot and said that he “didn’t become old overnight” as he wonders which his next club will be.
The Steven Gerrard advice that convinced Mohamed Salah to leave Liverpool
More frustration for Arne Slot with Alexander Isak out again
Sunday 3 May 2026 14:29 , Richard Jolly, at Old TraffordA Liverpool team without the three players expected to bring the goals this season, with Hugo Ekitike joined on the sidelines by Alexander Isak and Mohamed Salah.
Alisson is not fit to return, either, so it is a big day for Freddie Woodman, following his eventful outing against Crystal Palace last week. He faced Manchester United when Cristiano Ronaldo made his second debut in 2021.
Click here to read the full blog on The Independent's website
