One of the most overrated and over-hyped matches in Premier League history ended in a bore draw on Monday night, as both Liverpool and Manchester United failed to score, 'treating'fans to an under-par game.
Subjected to some of the more heavy criticism for his display was United's Paul Pogba, who continues to perform well below his £89m price tag. Even his manager Jose Mourinho has been forced to admit that the Frenchman is not delivering what is expected of him.
The first goalless draw in 22 league meetings between Liverpool & Man United! Utd had 35% possession, their lowest ever in a #PL match.. pic.twitter.com/UlVATpMM1D
"Had it been 1-0 it would have been finished,'' Mourinho toldSky Sports. "Where Pogba was playing, I was expecting more penetration."
Another man who has been disappointing is highly-billed Swede Zlatan Ibrahimovic.
"Defensively we did really well, we should have had a little bit more. We had a big chance that I thought Zlatan was going to score."
"[It was a] very difficult game for us and for them. More difficult game for them than us. We started really well and were completely in control."
Lot of criticism of Mourinho on here seems based on the fact he didn't set Man. Utd. up in a way that would have allowed Liverpool to win.
Manchester United managed only 35% of possession during the game, which is the lowest they have had since the stat was first compiled in 2003 (although Mourinho claimedhis statistician had recorded 42%). On the other hand, they limited Liverpool to just two shots on goal, which is testament to United's defensive masterclass.
"That's what we planned," Mourinho said of the tactical approach, admitting that the key was to frustrate Liverpool instead of taking charge themselves.
"We knew that they wanted to press forward. We know that their transition is really strong and high. They [Liverpool] are not the last wonder in the world like you like to say they are."
"The game was completely under control. We controlled very well the emotions of the game. We could influence the crowd. They were waiting for an easy match."