Giggs predicts strong showing from Liverpool

Manchester United’s Ryan Giggs will not be taking Liverpool lightly ahead of Sunday’s blockbuster FA Cup clash.

Liverpool have struggled in all competitions this season and are 12th on the Premier League table, just four points above the relegation zone.

But the Welsh winger believes that in a one-off cup tie, Liverpool’s form is irrelevant.

“First and foremost, form goes out the window when you play in the FA Cup,” Giggs said.

“Liverpool will probably see it as a break from the League, a break from the pressures of their league form at the moment and their chance to get their season back on track.”

“You take no notice of how teams are doing, whether it’s a derby or your biggest rivals, form goes out the window. It’s a one-off game like I say, one bad decision or bit of luck and you’re out of the Cup.”

“They’ve got world class players, Gerrard, Torres, Pepe Reina in their team – all world-class players so when you’re up against a team with players like that then you don’t take any team lightly.”

While Manchester City and Leeds United are strong rivals of the Old Trafford outfit, Giggs admits there is something special about this rivalry.

“I think it’s just the history that’s there between the two teams. The two most successful teams in England,” he said.

“When I was growing up Liverpool were winning everything. Over the last 15-20 years obviously we’ve been winning the majority of Leagues and Cups so there’s that history and rivalry. They’re half an hour away. They’re both great teams with great traditions.”

Giggs says ‘you can’t beat’ the feeling of lifting the FA Cup at Wembley and is hoping his side can reverse last year’s shock third round exit at the hands of Leeds at Old Trafford.