Brown: Why Liverpool is my favourite fixture

The former defender, who enjoyed 15 glittering years as a United player, has described the feelings and emotions he experienced when playing against the Merseysiders,  citing just how special it was to feature in the fixture.

"It’s my favourite game, it’s as simple as that," began Brown, as he sat alongside ex-Liverpool midfielder Danny Murphy for an in-depth chat with MUTV's Stewart Gardner.

The United Academy graduate insists the rivalry between the two teams was something he was well aware from his days in the youth team.

"I know it’s probably because I’m local and people always say it's because of the history, which it is, but I think you just grow up knowing that Liverpool are the team we need to beat," said the 42-year-old.

"It started at a young age. When it came to the [Academy] games against Liverpool, you could see the desire in their eyes as well. That’s the way it’s always been for me."

Brown's games against Liverpool include a memorable one at Old Trafford back in 2008, when he netted in our 3-0 triumph at Old Trafford en route to another Premier League crown. But as Wes points out, the results between the sides were sometimes at odds with their respective positions in the table.

"There were also times when we played Liverpool while we were challenging for titles and were beaten," said Wes. "It was about who played the best on the day.”

Murphy spoke about the mindset needed to cope when taking the field in the fixture, given the vast history.

"It makes good players who have a strong mentality more determined," said the ex-Liverpool man.

"But I think other players can crumble at Old Trafford and Anfield, when the fans get lively. United had a team full of strong-minded players."

"I loved getting hammered [verbally by the Liverpool fans]," added Brown.

"If fans actually knew what players thought then they probably wouldn’t do it, because it makes you more up for the game."