Pranav Nair
Manchester United legend Sir Alex Ferguson reveals insights into the rivalry with Liverpool
Speaking to Gary Neville on Sky Sports (h/t Youtube), Manchester United legend Sir Alex Ferguson has provided some key insights into his rivalry with Liverpool.
The legendary Scot was the main force behind United usurping the Merseysiders as the top team in English football. Throughout his career, he maintained a distinct edge over Liverpool in what was a very heated rivalry.
Looking back to how it all began, Ferguson admits that the origins of his rivalry lie in the respect he had for the Reds.
“It’s my respect to Liverpool.”
An upcoming manager at St Mirren, Ferguson spent a week watching Liverpool train. Then one of the most dominant teams in England and Europe, it appears to have left a profound impression on him.
“I saw the intensity of their training, the consistency they had. When I came to United and they’d been winning all the titles, I made that point.”
The lessons he learned during that visit was something that held him in good stead when he arrived at United.
He did the double over Liverpool in his first season at Old Trafford and steadily chipped away at them before emerging as the new force in English football.
No half measures
Ferguson was well aware that United could not afford to lower their guard against Liverpool. In fact, he always went in with his best team, knowing full well that they could not slack off.
“I always said to the players, when we played Liverpool, if you don’t turn up we’re going to be beaten.”
It would appear that beating the Merseysiders was a barometer of success in itself. Not only would it give us bragging rights but also ensure that United were on the right path.
“I knew if you beat Liverpool you’re on the right path.”
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Ferguson faced off against Liverpool 65 times in his career, winning 30 and losing 21 times. No other team apart from Chelsea have gotten the better of the Scottish legend in his long and illustrious managerial career. (h/t Transfermarkt)
While a rivalry is well and good, Ferguson should be applauded for not underestimating his opponents even during their downward spiral. There is no substitute for preparation and he ensured United were always ready.
