Manchester United have been handed a massive opportunity to take the advantage in the Premier League title race after Liverpool were defeated by Southampton on Monday night.
The champions have endured a torrid run of form since they smashed Crystal Palace for seven last month, with draws against West Brom and Newcastle now followed up with a 1-0 loss at St. Mary's.
Former Liverpool forward Danny Ings hit the fatal blow just two minutes into the match after he lobbed Alisson following a well worked James Ward-Prowse free-kick.
While Liverpool have stuttered over the festive fixtures, United have continued to blossom by going 10 games unbeaten in the league and drawing level on points with their fierce rivals at the top of the table despite playing a game less.
The Merseyside outfit's latest slip up means that Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's side have the chance to take the ascendancy in the title race for the first time next week.
Should United win their game in hand over Burnley on January 12 then they will move three points ahead of Liverpool before the two sides meet at Anfield on January 17 for the crunch encounter. It would also be the first time that United have topped the division since August 10 2018, well over two years ago.
Going into the top-of-the-table clash above Liverpool could be significant as all the pressure would be on Jurgen Klopp's men to win the game, whereas just a draw would benefit United.
However, before attentions turn to the title race, both sides will first have to compete in the FA Cup third round this coming weekend. United welcome Championship side Watford to Old Trafford, while Liverpool travel to Premier League rivals Aston Villa.
