Manchester United's Louis van Gaal: 'We cannot afford to lose to Liverpool'

Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal has insisted that Sunday's clash against Liverpool is a "crucial" game that his side cannot afford to lose.

The Red Devils, who are currently fourth in the table, will be overtaken by their arch rivals if they suffer defeat at Anfield.

However, if they snatch all three points then they could leapfrog local enemies Manchester City into second if Manuel Pellegrini's side lose to West Bromwich Albion on Saturday.

United secured a 3-0 win over the Merseyside outfit at Old Trafford in December, which is the their rivals' only Premier League defeat in their last 17 games.

"I want to win against them again," Van Gaal told reporters in today's press conference. "It's very important. I think every player knows the importance of this game. We are in a very crucial stage and cannot lose.

"I have the cook, Mike, [talking about the rivalry] every day to the players and me. I like that as it shows that it is a very particular match, especially for the fans of Manchester United. It also helps us to concentrate on this match."

United have lost twice in their last 10 league fixtures.