Liverpool’s match against Manchester United will go ahead as normal despite fears it could have been postponed because of heavy snowfall.

The decision was confirmed at midday on Sunday, just four and a half hours before the scheduled kick-off time.

Matches across the country had fallen foul to the weather chaos but after consultation with the relevant authorities, the decision was taken to press ahead with the fixture.

A statement from Liverpool on Sunday morning read: “Today’s fixture against Manchester United will go ahead as planned. Two safety meetings were held earlier to assess the weather and travel conditions.

“We thank everyone involved in helping us to get this game on today. If you’re travelling to Anfield then please take extra care. We look forward to seeing you there.”

United also issued an update on social media, stating: “Following a second safety meeting, it has been decided that today’s match between Manchester United and Liverpool will go ahead.

“There have been snowfall and weather warnings across the North West on Sunday but it has been deemed safe for fans to attend the 16:30 GMT kick-off.

“Take care if you are travelling to Merseyside today, Reds.”

A safety group meeting had initially taken place at 9am on Sunday morning after a blanket of snow covered the stadium’s surrounding areas overnight.

It was reported there were never any concerns about the state of the pitch, with the overriding issue being the safety of supporters travelling to and from the fixture.

But a decision on the fixture was deferred until later in the morning, as the relevant authorities continued to ponder whether to pull the plug on the match.

In the meantime, Liverpool issued a statement telling fans the match was planning to go ahead as normal.

It read: “A safety meeting was held this morning to assess the weather and travel conditions for today’s fixture against Manchester United at Anfield.

“At this stage the match is planned to go ahead as normal and every effort is being made to get the game on.

“A further safety meeting will take place again at midday to assess the latest conditions.

“We will update supporters just as soon as we can. Please take extra care out there, Reds.”

Liverpool will go eight points clear of second-placed Arsenal at the top of the table with a victory, whereas United would climb up to 12th by beating their long-time rivals.