Former Liverpool captain Steve McMahon has no doubts they're a class above Manchester United.

McMahon was part of Liverpool's last title-winning side in 1990 and admits he did not expect the gulf between the sides to be so big heading into Sunday's showdown at Anfield.

“We are way past United at this stage," he said. “United have fallen so below their standards and we have gone above where I think we should be in this short period of time.

“There is miles of difference between Liverpool and Manchester United.

“We're now head and shoulders above Manchester United and we should take the game to them, while being patient.

“The atmosphere and the game will be different, but we are favourites."