Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho has claimed that he relishes the opportunity to play against Liverpool at Anfield.
Mourinho takes United to Merseyside on Saturday for what is the club's first fixture against a direct rival for the Premier League title, with United looking to extend their unbeaten start to the campaign.
However, Mourinho has insisted that his players will only benefit from facing their North-West foes in front of their own supporters, rather than being intimidated by the prospect of competing in a hostile atmosphere.
The 54-year-old told reporters: "When people speak about big atmosphere it looks like we don't like it. It is what we want. I am surprised you speak about that in a negative way. I am even more surprised when ex players speak about the atmosphere as if it was something sinister or to worry about. If we could have the same atmosphere in every match we would.
"When Barca played Las Palmas empty stadium, we they happy with that? Wouldn't Las Palmas want to play at the Nou Camp when it was full? When we play at home, we complain when no big enthusiasm. We know fans have huge animosity. It is what we want. Happy to have one more opportunity to play in these conditions. Beautiful to play at Anfield."
United head into the game with a seven-point advantage over Liverpool, while victory will take Mourinho's men three points clear at the top of the standings.
Darren Plant
