Liverpool have thrashed Manchester United 7-0 in the Premier League – United’s heaviest defeat since Boxing Day 1931.

It is the first time the Red Devils have lost by seven goals in any competition since that loss to Wolverhampton Wanderers more than 90 years ago.

“It’s one for the history books,” said Sky Sports commentator Martin Tyler at Anfield. “No one could have predicted this scoreline.”

Former United captain Gary Neville said his club’s performance had been an “absolute disgrace, a shambles”.

He added: “It’s not their usual spirit and form. (Erik) Ten Hag (United manager) will deal with it, I’m sure, like he’s dealt with other difficult issues.”

Another former United skipper, Roy Keane, said the senior players “didn’t show any leadership skills” and the team as a whole would be “ashamed of their performance”.

“Thank God I’ve never been part of a team that’s been beaten by that much playing for Manchester United,” he said.

Liverpool, who have had a disappointing season given their recent trophy-winning success, went in at half time just 1-0 up, courtesy of a classy strike from Dutch winger Cody Gakpo.

Then, in the second half, there were a further six goals for the Reds. Gakpo took a second, while Darwin Nunez also claimed a brace, as did Mohamed Salah.

Roberto Firmino completed the rout.

It means Salah has become Liverpool’s all-time top Premier League goal scorer.

“It’s very special, I can’t lie,” he told Sky Sports.

“This record was in my mind since I came here. After my first season I was always chasing the record.

“To get it today against United with that result is unbelievable. I’m going home to celebrate with the family. Chamomile tea and sleep.”

For United, there were also 7-0 losses to Aston Villa in December 1930 and Blackburn Rovers in April 1926, analytics company Stats Perform said.

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