WAYNE ROONEY has lit the touch paper ahead of tomorrow's Premiership title cruncher against Liverpool - by claiming he grew up hating the Anfield men.

Former Everton star Rooney knows victory at Old Trafford over Rafael Benitez's side would more or less end their rivals' title challenge.

Rooney was impressed as he watched Liverpool destroy Real Madrid on Tuesday, but admitted: "I grew up hating Liverpool. And that hasn't changed.

"Liverpool played really well (against Madrid). They attacked with speed, they were aggressive, they put Madrid under a lot of pressure. Madrid just couldn't handle them.

"They have put up a great challenge this season, but we could end that challenge. We're in pole position and if we beat Liverpool it will almost certainly end their chances of winning the league. That would be great for everybody at Old Trafford - and especially for me."