Liverpool manager Kenny Dalglish is keen for the "sideshow'' which has developed around the fringes of tomorrow's game against Manchester United to remain in the background.

While an FA Cup fourth-round tie between England's two most decorated clubs who share such a bitter rivalry would be enough to crank up the tension, a new element has been introduced in recent months.

The two sets of supporters have taken opposite stances in the wake of Reds striker Luis Suarez's eight-match suspension after being found guilty of racially abusing United's Patrice Evra when the two sides met at Anfield in October.

That incident stoked the simmering feud which exists between groups of rival fans and, with the case being played out in the full glare of the media - many of whom criticised Liverpool for their defence of Suarez - the issue has rarely been out of the headlines in three months.

The Uruguay international still has two matches of his ban to serve so will not be on the pitch tomorrow - although he is likely to be in the directors' box - but it is anticipated Evra will play.

But Dalglish insisted the focus had to be on football and everyone involved, from the pitch to the stands, had to behave.

"We want to concentrate on going out and playing football and any other sideshow is purely that, it is just a sideshow,'' the Scot said.

"Everyone has a responsibility to uphold the names of their respective club and anyone who reports or comments on the game also has the responsibility to make sure they are not trying to incite trouble.

"But it is not only the fans who have to behave themselves; we have a responsibility to behave - but that is the case every time.

"I am sure everyone will be determined to make sure what's done has been done and whatever your grievance is keep it to yourself and let's get on with the game.''

Much has been done to lessen the potential for problems at Anfield.

United boss Sir Alex Ferguson sent a letter to ticket holders appealing for them to work with the stewards in the stadium after previous encounters had led to their allocation being cut because of persistent standing in gangways.

Liverpool managing director Ian Ayre and captain Steven Gerrard have both stressed the focus has to be on football and Merseyside Police earlier this week issued their own guidance, insisting they would be: "Firm, fair and friendly but take action where necessary against those individuals who may seek to cause problems or misbehave.''

Midfielder Jay Spearing could be recalled to Liverpool's squad after missing three matches with a hamstring injury.

Ferguson has stayed clear of the entire row since his initial confirmation that United would back Evra in whatever action he chose to take.

However, the Scot feels now is the time to try and ensure all the talk is about the game, rather than the obvious issues surrounding it.

"It is a massive game for both clubs,'' he said.

"There is a tremendous profile on it and will be interest throughout the country.

"As Steven Gerrard said, there is a responsibility on the players to behave properly. That is what I expect my players to do.

"Both sets of fans have got to make sure we are talking about the game and nothing else.''

Ferguson flatly refused to speak directly about Evra, or whether he would play.

However, assistant Mike Phelan has already said the stand-in United skipper would be available for selection, which given Ferguson's massive injury list, is hardly a surprise.

Wayne Rooney and Phil Jones (both ankle) and Rio Ferdinand (back) are amongst those who are thought to be causing concern.

Nani (foot) is expected to miss out, although there has been no official update on the winger's fitness since he limped out of last Sunday's win at Arsenal.

Match

I'm sure, manchester united will be the winners

I suspect big clubs like man u finds it difficult to beat liverpool. my suspicion will be confirmed when liverpool works out again a better team. let's go there

Im findin it difficult 2 predict cos of Man U playas which are sidelind due 2 injury bt stil,wit liverpool home form and couple of draws at home, :-/ it might result in2 a draw which may enventualy c Man U winin d rplay bt stil Glory Glory Man U!

I 4gt dat its a win or lose affair!
If it goes bynd 90min,dn liverpool shd just consider dmslves out of d competitn.

Liverpool wins!

They only play well against the big teams.

Well, obviously Livpool stands d better chance of winning. Man utd has some of their key players unfit, playing away and against fans they hv hurt, courtesy Evra's claim of being racially abused; the atmosphere will definitely be in favor of Livpool. Dn't forget Livpool's performance against Man city which shows dat they r no respecter of any club. That's my judgment.

As always am expecting 2 be entertained by 2 of England's biggest club. Watch out 4 the Evra vs Liverpool supporters clash and i hope Andy Carroll attends 2day's party. United will be spineles without Nani, so am tipping Liverpool 2 win

whether they like it or not, Liverpool FC will Run Them Down today!

Since they want some, they are going to get some.

United is no match for Liverpool any day! It's Liverpool all the way, knock 'em wankers off this one! YNWA!

rooney missing

na everytime liverpool go play you'll never walk alone?

suarez rabbit teeth

game on

freekick united . .

evra is silly

maxi rodriguez!!!

what a shot

de gea see am

corner to liverpool

una wan fight ni?

disappointing corner . .goal kick united

see united oh . .shey una know liverpool ni o

giggs good shot reina got it

Come on you reds

rafeal should behave  

gerrad got unlucky,  

nice cross 4m hendason ,gerrard misses.

he didnt miss per say the ball bounced before he could deal with it

offside . . .

carragher wan finish park o

boring match

foul on evra . . . corner united

hmm this match will be interesting, Hope Man united liver pools down today.