That Liverpool have become embroiled with rival teams in 'mind games' simply shows that the Reds are genuine title contenders, insists Jamie Carragher. "Being involved in the mind games is a good thing. We've always been on the outside looking in, something we're not proud of," he told The Guardian.

"I've always had respect for them (Manchester Utd). They're a proper club, like us, and they should have respect for us as well."

Liverpool have not won a League title since 1990 as Man United look to equal their record of 18 League titles this season.

"Will we get nervous? I haven't got a clue," replied Carragher.

"I'm not going to put an act on and say no, because I've never been there. It's only January. It's embarrassing, really, that I've only been in this position once, with Gerard Houllier."