Gary Neville jokes Man Utd’s defensive wall better OUTSIDE Old Trafford than on pitch as he bemoans Harry Maguire injury

OLD TRAFFORD used to be a fortress – but on one tempestuous night it became a “prison” then a sandcastle as Liverpool tore apart Manchester United’s doddery defence.

United legend Gary Neville joked his old club’s defensive wall was stronger OUTSIDE the ground than in it as he bemoaned Harry Maguire’s absence in Liverpool’s 4-2 win.

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Manchester United reflect on a nightmare night at the back as Liverpool rocked them 4-2 at Old TraffordCredit: AFP

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Much-missed Harry Maguire watches on with his foot in a brace as second-placed Man United slumped to Liverpool at Old TraffordCredit: PA

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Police on horseback were deployed outside the ground – but Man Utd’s defence arguably performed more like donkeys inside the ground

Victor Lindelof’s centre-back partnership with Eric Bailly showed why Old Trafford boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is hungry to find a new sidekick for skipper Maguire.

And the only United resistance that lasted was the extra security Neville compared to a jail – to ward off protesting fans for a Premier League clash rearranged after supporters forced its postponement 11 days ago.

Bruno Fernandes hit United’s early opener via a big deflection but Diogo Jota’s leveller hinted at the rearguard shambles to follow.

Liverpool striker Roberto Firmino duly struck his first two goals since January, a header when he evaded Paul Pogba and a tap-in.

The Brazilian even hit the bar before Marcus Rashford swept second-placed United back into it.

But Mo Salah sealed Liverpool’s victory with their counter-attacking fourth goal as Jurgen Klopp’s fallen champs went fifth to keep alive their Champions League hopes.

Former England defender Neville told Sky Sports: “United’s defensive wall is better outside the stadium than it has been inside tonight.

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“There’s a huge drop off when Maguire doesn’t play.”

That followed Nev’s scathing pre-match assessment… of the club’s OFF-FIELD measures.

Doubting United co-owner Joel Glazer’s ability to build bridges, he said: “What we have at the moment is a fan base more wound up than ever before.

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“Let’s be clear what we’ve seen on that forecourt, which is effectively Manchester United turned into a prison.

“It’s a devastating image for the Manchester United image and brand around the world.

“When you have to put prison walls around your ground and have hundreds and hundreds of police officers on a game where fans aren’t attending, there is something gone badly wrong.”

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Old Trafford ring of steel in full flow as Man Utd players arrive seven hours early for Liverpool clash