The lack of belief in Manchester United's chances at Anfield was perfectly summed up by Liverpool manager Arne Slott's press conference ahead of Sunday's 2-2 draw.
Incredibly, the first question facing the Dutchman concerned whether, with the visitors languishing in 14th place in Premier Leaguehe may consider laying off key people.
However, the gap between these teams was just as wide last season, and yet the Reds failed to win any of their three meetings.
As such, we probably should have seen it Live performance of the Red Devils comes, and even more disappointment for the hosts when they face their bitter rivals.
A disciplined back three who defends well? Check. A quick attack that deals counter damage? Check. And a disappointing result at Anfield? Check.
Even before Slott referred to it in his post-match press conference, Liverpool supporters could perhaps see the parallels with his only defeat in charge, which came against Nottingham Forest again in September.
Set in the same vein, United emulated Forest's success in frustrating their hosts and hitting them on the break throughout the 90 minutes.
However, there is an upside to falling into the same trap again for Slot, in that it comes just over a week before a rematch with Nuno Espirito Santo's side, which will serve as a learning opportunity I actually got it out of this. time around.
After the losses, it is all too easy to suggest that a personnel change may have profoundly affected the course of the game.
But in the case of Dominik Szoboszlai's absence on Sunday, it feels very real.
The Hungarian was left out of the starting XI against Leicester City for a well-earned rest, but received a one-match suspension to serve against West Ham United after coming on as a substitute, and then went on to miss the game through illness. .
Unfortunately, his loss really showed against United Liverpool sorely missing their press leader and a man who consistently closes gaps with his unmatched motor.
To make matters worse, his replacement Curtis Jones endured a mixed afternoon, allowing the visitors to take the lead in the center of the park.
Of course, as much as this result will feel like a loss given United's position and the rivalry between these two teams, Liverpool fans shouldn't get too carried away with their misery.
The fact is that the Reds had the better chances overall, and could very easily have walked away from a forgettable performance like this with all three points.
Moreover, with Arsenal have dropped points for the ninth time in 20 games so far this weekend, Slott's side remain in an enviable position at the summit.
They are six points clear with a game in hand and top favorites for the title as a result, while the Gunners are yet to string together four consecutive wins this season.
That means Liverpool have plenty of room to drop a point here and there, even if they wanted to avoid it entirely.