Ahead of the hugely anticipated clash between Liverpool and Manchester United this Sunday at Anfield, most fans and pundits will be looking towards the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo and Bruno Fernandes to make the difference for the away side.
And yet, according to Paul Merson, the real difference-maker for Ole Gunner Solskjaer could well be Scott McTominay - who the former Arsenal man believes should be the first name on the teamsheet.
The Scottish midfielder has been a regular for United this season, often playing in the middle alongside the likes of Fred, Nemanja Matic and Paul Pogba.
Advert
It does appear as if Solskjaer very much trusts the 24-year-old to play the holding role, as he has started most big games this season - including their last two Champions League outings.
According to Sky Sports pundit Merson, McTominay can bring some much-needed work rate and energy to a United midfield that will need to be up for the fight against high-flying Liverpool.
"They've got to change it up a bit. They don't close people down either. Look at Liverpool. They are flying again because they've started working hard again," Merson highlighted in his Daily Star column.
"Look at Manchester City. Top players. Top team. Working their socks off. Look at Chelsea the other day against Brentford. Up against it. But they'd run through brick walls for you.Advert
"United? They're not closing down. They're not working hard. They're EASY to play against. They're struggling. It's not nice to watch Manchester United at the moment."
As the former Arsenal striker confesses, the path to victory for United looks perilous no matter who starts, with the Red Devils looking less than solid defensively in recent weeks.
"How they beat Liverpool I have no idea. But Scott McTominay is the first name on the teamsheet. At least he puts a shift in," Merson added.
Advert
"United don't have enough players like that. And Solskjaer won't be in a job much longer if it carries on like this."
Time will tell as to what sort of side Solskjaer puts out at Anfield, but matching Liverpool's energy and hunger will be imperative if United are to leave Merseyside with a point or three.
Featured Image Credit:Topics: Liverpool, Manchester United, Premier League, scott mctominay, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer