Dunn: Anfield factor could be key
Jack Dunn believes the Anfield factor could be a big advantage for Liverpool U21s as they look to avenge their Old Trafford defeat last season when Manchester United arrive for the national semi-final play-off on Friday night.
Last season, this evening's visitors downed the young Reds 3-0 in the last four of the Barclays U21 Premier League play-offs, before going on to become national champions after overcoming Tottenham Hotspur.
Kick-off at Anfield is at 7.45pm BST; tickets for the Kop are available to purchase now, while the game will also be broadcast live on LFC TV and LFCTV GO from 7.15pm. Click here for details.
Alex Inglethorpe's side finished second in the league and head into this tie in fine form after firing 55 goals in 21 games this term.
Dunn came off the bench during last season's Old Trafford loss; the 19-year-old Scouser therefore explained why the players cannot wait to step out at Anfield once again.
"This year it's a totally different team and we have a younger team," the attacker told Liverpoolfc.com.
"I think the home advantage is a big thing for us this time and hopefully we can put one over United.
"It's been magnificent for us to play a few games at Anfield this season. That is where you want to play, week in, week out.
"We have played excellent football this season and to get the opportunity to play at Anfield - the home advantage against United - I think that's a massive confidence boost for the lads if we get a good turnout.
"We've been working so hard, we are together as a group and we are desperate to try and become national champions. We have got a lot of confidence and we want to beat United and go all the way to the final now."
Dunn was also quick to point out his gratitude to coach Inglethorpe, who he feels has helped his game flourish this season.
The Kirkby graduate has fired 10 goals in a new central attacking role throughout the campaign and is the top scorer for the U21s.
He was called up to the first-team squad for last Sunday's Anfield clash with Chelsea and, despite not making the bench, warmed up with Steven Gerrard and co before kick-off.
He added: "Alex has helped me a lot this season. He has added different aspects to my game, like making more intelligent runs in behind the opposition.
"I have played in a few different positions this season and I'm trying to grasp the position of a No.9, which I think is my favourite position because I'm scoring goals and I'm contributing to the team.
"I do feel my game has really come on leaps and bounds under Alex. I know there is still a lot of hard work to do but I'm really grateful to Alex and he's a great coach to work under."