Sir Alex Ferguson hoping for quiet afternoon when Manchester United face Liverpool
Sir Alex Ferguson hopes Man Utd's home date with Liverpool on Sunday will make headlines for all the right reasons.
Last Updated: 10/01/13 3:59pm
The last time the two old adversaries met at Old Trafford in the Premier League, the game was overshadowed by Luis Suarez's refusal to shake hands with Patrice Evra.
Those differences were put aside during a meeting at Anfield in September, and it is hoped the issue can now be laid to rest.
Ferguson is looking for that to be the case, with the United boss eager for focus to be returned to footballing matters ahead of an eagerly-anticipated north west derby.
"There will always be a certain build-up to a Manchester United-Liverpool game, simply because of the history between the two clubs, the two most successful in the country," Ferguson told Inside United.
"It brings its own agenda in terms of profile and pre-match discussion.
"Last year it was unfortunate with the Suarez behaviour.
"I think hopefully it is behind both clubs now and we can just look forward to the game."
Complete
Meanwhile, Ferguson has also been looking ahead to United's forthcoming UEFA Champions League clash with Real Madrid - which will see the Red Devils line up against a familiar face.
Cristiano Ronaldo built his reputation at Old Trafford, but has gone on to scale even greater heights since leaving for Spain in 2009 - according to Ferguson.
"Maturity brings many things," said the Scot.
"When I went to see them play against (Manchester) City, some of his decision making in terms of passing was brilliant. One-touch passing, good crosses.
"In the six years we had him, you just saw his game grow all the time, and he was a fantastic player.
"Now you see the complete player.
"His decision-making, his maturity, his experience, plus all the great skills he has got, they all make him the complete player."
Manchester Utd v Liverpool is live on Sky Sports 1 this Sunday. For more details click here
