Liverpool return to Premier League action on Sunday with a grudge match against rivals Manchester United at Anfield, in a mouth-watering prospect for the home fans.

The Premier League champions have been far from their best so far this season and lost three consecutive games before the international break.

Liverpool signed Alexander Isak and changed the look of Arne Slot’s squad over the summer, with the Merseysiders hoping to retain their Premier League title and make an assault on the Champions League in 2025-26.

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However, if the Reds are to get back to winning ways on Sunday and improve performances in what will be a busy next six weeks, they need one key midfield maestro fit and firing.

Photo by Tom Dulat/Getty Images

Ryan Gravenberch was a key component in a Liverpool team last season who looked unstoppable, with the Dutch midfielder the gel that keeps the Reds side together.

The former Ajax schemer’s ability to take the ball under pressure and find players further ahead of him is key in transitions, and led to plenty of Liverpool goals last season.

Gravenberch played in the Netherlands’ 4-0 win over Finland earlier this week but was...