Boss hopes for Edwin bonus

The Dutch goalkeeper has missed United's last two games, enabling Ben Foster and Tomas Kuszczak to play at Derby and at home to Bolton respectively. Although both shot-stoppers performed well to keep clean sheets in Edwin's absence, the United boss would love to welcome back his number one for such an important fixture.

Sir Alex said before Friday's training session: "We’re waiting to see how Edwin van der Sar and Rio Ferdinand train this morning.

"They both have to train to give me the confidence to play them. I’m doubtful for Rio, I’m hopeful for Edwin. One out of two would be a bonus, given their experience."

Van der Sar has yet to concede a league goal against Liverpool while playing for United. He's faced the Merseysiders six times since his 2005 transfer to Old Trafford and has only been beaten once, by Peter Crouch's FA Cup fifth-round winner at Anfield in 2006.

United's only other injury concern is over Louis Saha, who started the midweek win over Bolton before being replaced on 70 minutes by Wayne Rooney.

"Louis Saha got a knock on Wednesday," said Sir Alex. "We’ll have to see what he’s like this morning. His injury flared up a bit after training yesterday. Otherwise, everyone’s fit."

Video: Watch Sir Alex's press conference on MUTV Online from 17:00 GMT Friday.