 JAMIE CARRAGHER is torn between feeling reassured and worried as he considers the sense of confidence ahead of Liverpool's trip to Old Trafford. Manchester United's derby defeat has led to predictable obituaries on an empire which has, allegedly, been crumbling for five years. United's points tally, which in most season's would represent a title surge, suggests otherwise. And Carragher is of the view last week's result at the City of Manchester Stadium is more likely to motivate than deflate United's players. "It's a bit worrying to me when supporters are feeling too confident about a game like this," says Carragher. "Manchester United are like us in that whenever they lose a game, there's a big drama in the newspaper for days. Speaking from our own experiences, when that happens it just makes you more determined. "You're happier if there is a big game coming straight after. "They're always written off, but we know the reality is different. They're a great side with world class players and we'll have to produce a top performance to get a result. "It would be nice to think we could go there, dominate possession and create all the chances, but I don't think any away team does that at Old Trafford. "We've got to approach it the same way as our recent successes there. I'd think of it as a European game when you try and keep possession, be strong on the ball and take any chances which come your way." The trip to Old Trafford is the first of a series of strenuous tests which will determine if Rafa Benitez's side can impose themselves on the leaders, or must accept the runners-up spot as a more realistic target. "It's make-or-break month with regards the title," said Carragher. "When you look at the fixtures, there's no denying that. By the time we've played United, Arsenal and Chelsea, we'll know if we've a realistic chance of winning the title or not. "We're relying on Chelsea to have a major fall, but we know if we have a good few weeks we've still got hope." |