Liverpool fans always create an electric atmosphere when Manchester United visit Anfield, but this Sunday’s clash with their bitter rivals is set to be even better after the Reds announced that over 57,000 fans will attend the game.
The upper tier of the refurbished Anfield Road stand, which has been under construction since September 2021, will partially open after Liverpool City Council granted the necessary health and safety permits following successful test event on the ground on Monday.
Sunday’s game is expected to be the biggest home league crowd at Anfield since April 1973, when 56,202 attended Bill Shankly’s Liverpool’s 0-0 draw with Leicester City.
Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp made a special visit to the test event, taking part in a Q&A with supporters and sharing his delight at seeing the new stand with fans in it.
“I love it, it’s incredible. When it started, I couldn’t imagine what it would be like,” said Klopp reported on the club’s official website.
“Watching it now, I’m really excited and a little emotional. I’m not sure if everyone realizes that this is a historic moment and I’m proud to be here tonight.
“We are the first people to use this wonderful space. I know you can’t see it from this side, but let me tell you, it’s brilliant. What a beautiful new stand. I can’t wait to use it.”
The club’s statement said: “There is still more work to be completed before the stand can be fully operational and LFC will be able to welcome 61,000 fans to Anfield on match day.
“However, this is significant progress and ahead of the revised schedule, which did not foresee fans in the top flight until January 2024.”
Liverpool are top of the table and in excellent form for Sunday’s clash with Manchester United, having won every game at Anfield this season.
They also have an excellent record against Man Utd at home, with their last defeat coming back in January 2016, and their last two games coming in 4-0 and 7-0 wins.