In the sick of it! Manchester United ace Rooney admits going to Liverpool made him ill

Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney heads for Liverpool this weekend in much better fettle than he did a few years ago.

As an Everton supporter and then player, Rooney was very much a part of the local rivalry on Merseyside and trips to Anfield used to make him feel ill. He said: 'I used to love the games, but to be honest before I used to feel sick I was so nervous, it was a horrible feeling.

Rivalry: Manchester United star Wayne Rooney used to dread going to Anfield 

'We didn't win many at Anfield. If you didn't win the game, if you lost the game, it was dreadful having to go back to school and face your mates who were Liverpool fans.

'All of my family are massive Everton fans, so to beat Liverpool is always a great feeling and a great day when you do that.

Demolition derby: Rooney (2nd left) at Anfield with Everton in 2002

'It's a big day for United with the rivalry with Liverpool, but for me it's a massive game.'

Rooney is expecting a tough test from Kenny Dalglish's side in Saturday's early kick-off.

Premier League leaders United are six points ahead of fifth-placed Liverpool and Rooney added: 'I think they've made some good signings and obviously with them not qualifying for the Champions League last season I think they'll be desperate to get back into that.

Treble: Dirk Kuyt (right) scored a hat-trick as Liverpool beat United 3-1 in March

'Anfield is always for me the toughest place to go and win a game. They'll be pushing to get into the top four and, with the signings they've got, they're capable of doing that.

'We'll have to be aware of them and try and beat them this time.'