Former left-back Patrice Evra believes Manchester United will be in need of a "miracle" to take anything from this evening's showdown with arch-rivals Liverpool at Old Trafford.
Both sides will enter the contest going in search of their first victory of the season following disappointing starts to the campaign. United have lost each of their opening two matches while Liverpool have drawn their first two outings, being frustrated by both Fulham and Crystal Palace.
Jurgen Klopp's side were dominant for long spells against Palace last Monday evening and would have scooped maximum points on any other day, with a plethora of chances going begging. United, on the flip side, have not produced any signs of encouragement in their first two matches, meaning the odds remain stacked against them.
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United were brushed aside by Liverpool on two occasions last season, losing 5-0 at Old Trafford and 4-0 at Anfield. The Merseysiders were a cut above in every single department and still remain light years ahead of their historic rivals.
And for former Reds defender Evra, who tasted victory over Liverpool 11 times during his United career, his old side are going to need something special to inflict some revenge on Klopp's charges. But although he is short on confidence, he doesn't believe Liverpool have reached the best levels so far this term.
"Against Liverpool we will need a miracle," Evra told Betfair. "The only positive thing is Liverpool haven't won a game yet, so they also don't look ready yet.
"I think since [Sadio] Mane left, there's a big gap there. Mane was important as [Mohamed] Salah for the team. Klopp has to adapt the team in a different way.
"United can surprise everyone but it's going to be tough. Maybe this match can boost the players confidence. Liverpool are not at the level of Man City at the moment, and I know they will get back."
Liverpool were poor in their only away game of the season so far, playing out a 2-2 draw with Fulham on the opening day of the campaign. However, they were significantly better against Palace and Evra has warned that if they are motivated for their latest visit to Old Trafford then they will "destroy" United.
He added: "I'm positive about Liverpool turning things around, and it hurts me to say that. Last year, I remember they struggled when Virgil van Dijk was injured, but they still went toe-to-toe with City for the league title, so they will come back and I trust Klopp and Liverpool.
"Now, I don't trust Man United. We are touching rock-bottom right now, it wouldn't surprise me if we beat Liverpool. We can't do anything worse.
"Last season, Liverpool won 4-0, but it could have been more, it was like a training session. If Liverpool are arrogant we can beat them. But if Liverpool come into this game motivated after they haven't won any of their first two then they will destroy us."
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