Sander Berge's defiant message ahead of Sheffield United's clash with Manchester City after improved Liverpool showing

United led at Anfield through Berge's first-half penalty, but goals either side of half-time from Roberto Firmino and Diogo Jota sentenced United to their fifth defeat from six league games so far.

But there were signs at Anfield of United getting back to their old best, with the big Norwegian in midfield excelling on a stage that he will surely grace for many years to come.

"We've been so close in every game so far," he said. "It showed our passion and faith, to go out against the champions and go ahead.

"We showed a lot of belief in what we're doing, and we were strong and aggressive. That's the Sheffield United way, and we have to keep in that manner.

"If we keep playing like this, I am 100 per cent confident that we will get the results. To come to Anfield after losing a lot of games in a row is not easy, but we showed that we really believe and if we keep pushing, then results will turn for us."

Next up for the Blades is a home meeting with Pep Guardiola's City, before Berge and Co. round off their month with a trip to Stamford Bridge to face Chelsea.

"I was very proud of everyone and how we fought [at Anfield]," Berge added.

"They're a world-class team but we came to their home with no fear.

"We believed and played our game. We attacked them and didn't show them any more respect than we needed to.

"Now hopefully we can build on this and we go into the City game with confidence and belief."

Berge, a £22m signing from Genk last season, has been one of the shining lights of United's season so far and scored his first goal of the season from the spot at Anfield, after Oli McBurnie was fouled by Fabinho.

Barring injury or illness, Berge will make his latest appearance in United colours against City - but could be set for another change of role, after Ethan Ampadu impressed at the base of United's midfield against Liverpool.

Thank you for reading this article, one of dozens we publish every single day to provide you with the best, most up-to-date and most informative coverage of YOUR club. This depth of Blades coverage costs, so to help us maintain the high-quality reporting that you are used to from the football team at The Star, please consider taking out a subscription to our new discounted sports-only package. You'll find all the details HERE. Your support is much appreciated. Chris Holt, Football Editor