In the legendary boss’ own words, knocking the Reds “off their f***ing perch,” was his greatest challenge.
Of all the things he has said, that line uttered in a 2002 interview, is his most famous.
At the time, United trailed Arsenal by six points in the league and former Liverpool defender Alan Hansen used his newspaper column to suggest winning the title that season – which he did – would be the greatest achievement of his career given that the Gunners had won the previous campaign by 10 points.
“My greatest challenge was knocking Liverpool right off their fucking perch. And you can print that,” Ferguson said in response when Hansen’s words were put to him by journalist Michael Walker.
It’s little wonder, with Liverpool closing in on a first league title since 1990, Manchester City defender Kyle Walker revealed he United fans have stopped him in the street to tell him they hope City win the crucial Manchester derby. Victory for Pep Guardiola’s side would maintain their challenge at the top, however, if United were to win, that would send Liverpool two points clear at the top with three games to play.