Manchester United can rely on their greatest strength to put Liverpool FC hammering behind them

There is something about the first Sunday in March that seems to bring out the very worst in Manchester United.

After being beaten 4-1 by Manchester City on the maiden Sunday in March last year, United suffered further humiliation on the opening Sunday of the same month this year, being hammered 7-0 by Liverpool at Anfield, marking one of the lowest ebbs in the club's rich and colourful history. The Merseysiders' second half onslaught brought an end to the Reds' 11-game unbeaten run in devastating style.

Unlike 12 months ago, however, you can feel a lot more confident about them bouncing back and recovering as quickly as possible, though they will have a lot of making up to do before they are fully forgiven. At this juncture 12 months ago, United were still no closer to ending their trophy drought, had dropped out of the top four and had already exited both domestic cup competitions. Their only hope of salvaging their season was in the form of the Champions League.

READ MORE: Erik ten Hag might have discovered his most important player at United

This time around, however, United have already scooped a trophy, remain a strong bet to finish inside the Champions League places and are still competing in two other cup competitions. They also have a manager who has the ability, as he has already proven this season, to ensure his players suffer no hangovers from major setbacks.

Tonight's Europa League last-16 first-leg clash with Real Betis at Old Trafford represents United's players' first opportunity to take their first steps along the road to redemption. They will be expected to deliver a first-class response to Sunday's horror show and deliver the kind of performance those in the away end at Anfield at the weekend