Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand admits he loves beating Liverpool.

United eased away from Chelsea and Liverpool and remain just a point behind leaders Arsenal after Grand Slam Sunday.

Defender Ferdinand said: "Nothing tastes much better than going to Anfield and winning as a Manchester United player. It was huge for our confidence and a fantastic feeling. They thought they had a good chance of beating us. They've been playing well and have the players to beat us.

"But we were resolute all over the park. Our wide men, forwards and midfielders all defended together. That's a sign of a team that's strong and well bonded. That is exactly what we are. The morale in the squad is unbelievable."

Ferdinand hailed the way United's new boys took to the task on Sunday.

Anderson was immense in midfield, while Carlos Tevez plundered the only goal just before the break.

Ferdinand added: "Look at Anderson. At 19, he's come here in central midfield and held his own. He turns defence into attack so quickly.

"He hasn't even played the position for very long. So that bodes really well for us for the future. Tevez played really well, too. It was good for the foreign players to get their first feel of playing at Anfield and to get the taste of winning there."

Ferdinand was star man after a superb display against Liverpool striker Fernando Torres.

The England star insisted: "Playing against Liverpool at Anfield and getting a good result is something you dream about as a kid. We have nicked a few results down the years but I think we were worthy winners this time because they only caused us problems in the first half and then from set-pieces."