Liverpool legend Ian Rush admits Sir Alex Ferguson tried to sign him for Manchester United.

But he insists he was never tempted when leaving Juventus in 1988.

Rush admitted that Ferguson's approach was impressive. The Scot was the first of five managers, including Everton's Colin Harvey, Rangers' Graeme Souness and Bayern Munich's Uli Hoeness, to call him.

"It was shock at first. I thought it was a joke," Rush said. "He gave me his number and in fairness he sold me the club."

But despite telling Ferguson he would "think about it", Rush said no deliberation was necessary.

"I did read in [Michael Owen's] book that Dalglish got me out at the 11th hour," Rush said. "I was never going to Manchester United. I knew the rivalry. Kenny didn't have to sell the club. He made my mind up for me."