Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson expects a high-voltage clash with Liverpool today.

United are chasing an 18th league title to match Liverpool's long-standing record for a start. Rafael Benitez's men are desperate to stop them and realise that, seven points adrift having played a game more, nothing but a win will do.

Then there are the controversial comments Wayne Rooney made to MUTV in midweek, outlining his hatred of the Anfield outfit, which have only served to stoke the fires even more.

"Liverpool have always been our main rival," said Ferguson.

"It does not matter what the position in the league, as far as I am concerned, it has always been the derby game.

"It will always be that way because of the geography and history of the two cities.

"We are the two most successful football clubs in England. When they get together you expect sparks to fly."

And while he might urge a sense of calmness among his troops, he has no intention of reining them in as they continue to chase a quintuple Ferguson insists is the impossible dream.

"I won't be holding anyone back," he said. "It is Manchester United against Liverpool. It is not a time to hold back.

"It is a time to go forward, enjoy it and keep expressing yourself.

"But no-one is talking about the quintuple. I don't think it can be done."