Comparing Manchester United’s and Liverpool’s greatest XIs of 2000-2017

Manchester United players reveling in moment after winning the 2008 Champions League. Image courtesy Daily Star
Manchester United players revelling in the moment after winning the 2008 Champions League. Image courtesy Daily Star

Right-back

Manchester United – Gary Neville

A passionate Gary Neville
A passionate Gary Neville

Part of the famous ‘Class of 92’, Gary Neville is the best right back to ever participate in a Premier League game. Defensively, he was resolute. He never shied away from a challenge and made the right full back position his.

Neville also provided an outlet for Manchester United to attack and his trademark low crosses demonstrated his end product. Neville was so impressive that many rival managers and players believe he is an all-time great.

Lastly, Neville won everything there was to win at club level: two Champions league trophies and many league titles.

Rating – 7.9

Special Mention: Antonio Valencia

Liverpool – Glen Johnson

Glen Johnson (former Liverpool right-back). Image courtesy Daily Mail
Glen Johnson (former Liverpool right-back)

Acrobatic goals, long-range strikes, De Brunyne-esque left-foot drive, peachy crosses, and quick on the ground, Glen Johnson was the modern-day Cafu for Liverpool. Formerly of Chelsea and Portsmouth, Johnson turned out in Liverpool colours 200 times. His assist and goals contributed to Liverpool’s attacking brand of football – a philosophy Liverpool have exemplified ever since.

Rating – 5.7

Special Mention: Steve Finnan

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