Beware of Suarez, he’s controversial – Ferguson warns Webb ahead of Old Trafford clash

Manchester United boss, Sir Alex Ferguson, has warned referee Howard Webb, concerning’s Luis Suarez’s antics, as they prepare to play Liverpool on Sunday.

Suarez’s controversial handball against Mansfield in the FA Cup is still a subject of debate and Ferguson has asked Webb to keep an eye on the Uruguayan, who could influence the game in one way or the other.

“To be honest I never saw the game last Sunday but I think the lad is laden with controversy — I don’t know whether he enjoys it or not — but it is something we hope we don’t suffer from on Sunday,” he said.

“I just hope we don’t suffer from some of the decisions that have gone his way in terms of that. We want it to be a good game.”

The build up to last season’s game was also overshadowed by another Suarez controversy, after he refused to shake Patrice Evra’s hand, as a case of racial abuse got on its head. However, Rodgers was quick to defend his in-form striker.

“We hope we don’t have the decisions go against us that went for United in the game at Anfield earlier this season. A sending-off and penalty cost us.

“Suarez, unfortunately given what’s happened in the past, is vilified. But does it make a difference to him? No. If anything, it’s actually fuel for his mentality because he is so strong.

“We can’t go too much into this issue or I will get another piece of paper through (from the FA) like I got earlier on in the season.

“But Howard Webb is a very good referee. I’m confident the game will be decided on quality and not a decision.”