Liverpool’s much-anticipated Premier League game against Manchester United is under threat after areas of the north-west of England were put under an amber weather warning on Saturday.

Severe weather conditions struck Merseyside on Saturday evening, with a three-day warning for snow in place. Residents in Liverpool reported snowfall on Saturday night and as much as 5cm of snow is expected across northern England.

The Liverpool Echo reports that the city council’s Safety Advisory Group will hold a meeting on Sunday morning to decide whether the fixture can be played.

A significant amount of snow around Anfield would certainly put the Liverpool - Manchester United clash in danger of postponement. Modern soccer pitches are often able to withstand even the harshest winter conditions but the situation around the stadium - with a 61,000 capacity crowd expected - will be a concern for authorities.

What happens if Liverpool - Manchester United is postponed?

Liverpool are cruising at the top of the Premier League, their position strengthened further by draws for rivals Arsenal and Chelsea on Saturday. A victory over United would put Liverpool eight points ahead of Arsenal, with Arne Slot’s side having still played one game fewer.

That game in hand is a Merseyside Derby meeting with Everton, which was postponed after strong winds prevented the game going ahead in December. Liverpool’s trip to Everton still needs to fitted into a busy schedule.

If the Manchester United game is postponed too, Liverpool will be facing major fixture congestion in the coming months. They are still in the Champions League, FA Cup and Carabao Cup and will be reluctant to rest players in the Premier League, with a title in their sights. Slot has managed to rotate his squad brilliantly so far this season but another postponement could stretch his resources.