Ferguson: focus on pitch battle

Alex Ferguson has appealed for both fans and players to ensure today’s FA Cup tie between Liverpool and Manchester United is memorable only for the quality of football.

The Anfield showdown will be the first time the two sides have met since October, when Patrice Evra made his racism allegations against Luis Suarez.

Although Liverpool’s immediate reactions in the wake of the guilty verdict that led to Suarez being banned for eight matches left United distinctly unimpressed, the Merseyside giants have now switched their stance completely and warned supporters any racist abuse will not be tolerated.