Phil Thompson says Michael Carrick's return was the key to Manchester United hitting blistering form against Tottenham yesterday.
Despite lying fourth, the Red Devils have been dour and inconsistent all season but finally turned on the style with a swashbuckling 3-0 victory over Spurs at Old Trafford.
Phil joined Newstalk Breakfast live on air this morning and when Ivan put it to him that Carrick was the reason for the renaissance, the former Liverpool captain replied: "Absolutely ... Michael Carrick was different class.
"He kept everything flowing for the them ... that was the best I've seen from Manchester United all season."
On the other hand, Manchester City's defeat at Burnley looks to have pushed manager Manuel Pellegrini closer to the sack.
"It seems to be that way," said Phil. "I never wish for anybody to be fired, but yes it does seem that way.
"Leaving out [Vincent] Kompany and Fernandinho because of their ruck at Liverpool, maybe that's put another nail in his coffin.
"His players now seem to have too much power ... but it was a dreadful result. He doesn't seem to be getting them up for matches anymore"
Listen to Phil on Breakfast here:
Liverpool are in action at Swansea tonight, and as his former club lie five points behind their bitter rivals from Old Trafford ahead of the derby next Sunday, Phil reckons all three points must be won at the Liberty.
"There is a little bit of a gap there [to United]," he said. "With the big game coming next week against Manchester United, it is very, very important that Liverpool get the three points tonight.
"The thing about Monday night games is you know what you'got to do. And there's a little bit of pressure on Liverpool but they've been playing well enough. I'm expecting Liverpool to go there full of confidence."
Phil also reckons City's goose is cooked with regards to their Champions League last-16 second leg at the Nou Camp on Wednesday, but has "a sneaky feeling" Monaco might fall foul of Arsenal tomorrow.
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