Fergie reveals Alonso interest

Sir Alex Ferguson has admitted he was keen on Xabi Alonso before Liverpool bought him.

Liverpool beat Real Madrid to sign the Spanish international in the summer from Real Sociedad in their biggest signing of pre-season at Anfield.

Ferguson admitted he is a big fan of Alonso and considered bringing him to Old Trafford before deciding to strengthen his squad elsewhere.

"We had a look at Alonso for a while, but our priorities changed a little bit," said Ferguson.

Ferguson could come up against Alonso in Monday's Premiership clash with Liverpool and Reds boss Rafa Benitez has no worries about throwing the midfielder in against United at Old Trafford.

"Xabi is from the Basque country and they are no soft touch," said Benitez.

"They are very strong people.

"In northern Spain, it is very similar to England in many ways.

"For a start, it rains a lot more and there tends to be a lot more tackling in games.

"Players are always fighting for the ball more.

"There will be no problems with Xabi, he will play well. He has such a good mentality.

"Both he and Keane will know all about each other, they both play for their national teams.

"And if not, I'm sure Stevie Gerrard will have told him."