Experienced defenders Rio Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic have been included in the Manchester United starting lineup for this afternoon's clash against rivals Liverpool.

Jonny Evans has dropped out of the team because of injury, while Rafael will continue at right-back.

Elswhere, Danny Welbeck has been preferred up front ahead of Javier Hernandez.

Meanwhile, new signing Daniel Sturridge has been handed a place on the Liverpool bench.

Midfielder Joe Allen has been included in the team though and will start ahead of Jordan Henderson.

Man United: De Gea; Rafael, Ferdinand, Vidic, Evra; Cleverley, Carrick, Kagawa, Young; Welbeck, Van Persie

Liverpool: Reina; Wisdom, Skrtel, Agger, Johnson; Allen, Lucas; Downing, Gerrard, Sterling; Suarez