It was another disappointing result for United, who will be hoping for a much better performance in the reverse fixture if they are to have any chance of qualifying for the next round of the Europa League.
Memphis Depay brought down Nathaniel Clyne on the very edge of the area which led to a first half penalty for the Reds, and Sturridge just about slotted in it beyond David de Gea.
A poor attempted clearance by Michael Carrick saw Adam Lallana pick up the ball inside the area and pass it to Roberto Firmino, who was able to fire in Liverpool’s second from close range.
In fairness to Liverpool, they played extremely well, and United were on the back foot for most of the game, barely getting a shot off.
It was Louis van Gaal’s first loss to Liverpool as a Manchester United manager, and being knocked out of the Europe might be the final blow for the Dutchman.
Here’s a look at our player ratings for Thursday night’s clash:
David de Gea - 9
It could have been much worse for United had De Gea not been in goal.
The Spaniard could well be one of the best keepers in the world, and his performance tonight was more than worthy of that accolade.
Guillermo Varela - 7
Varela was arguably one of United’s best outfield players tonight, as he was one of few defenders to offer something going forwards.
Chris Smalling - 6
Made a couple of mistakes that could well have lead to goals if it wasn’t for De Gea. Other than that he dealt with a lot of the pressure quite well.
Daley Blind - 6
Was the furthest man up the pitch for United at one point, Blind had a pretty average game all round, and will hope for better in the next couple of fixtures.
Marcos Rojo - 4
Didn’t seem to offer anything going forwards, and was brilliant defensively either. Was wasteful at times and maybe would be better in the centre of defence.
Marouane Fellaini - 6
Could have, and maybe should have had a couple of bookings in what was a very physical game for the Belgian.
Was probably United’s best midfielder defensively and seemed to always be involved.
Morgan Schneiderlin - 5
Was very quiet, but had United’s only shot on target for the game. Not his usual self today.
Marcus Rashford - 5
Was unfairly booked in the first half and taken off after the break. He showed glimpses of class once again, but definitely should have done better in the opening minute.
Juan Mata - 6
United needed to involve the Spaniard more because when he was on the ball, they looked a bit better going forwards.
Was fairly quiet in periods and can perform better than that.
Memphis Depay - 5
Wasn’t as confident as he’s been in recent games, and could’ve done without conceding the penalty.
Will want to get back to his usual self before he finds himself back on the bench.
Anthony Martial - 5
Again looked good in periods but needed to be braver and run at the defence more. Squandered a few opportunities and will be disappoiunted all round.