“That’s what the players are going out for, to try and play and earn the right to get through to the next round of the FA Cup.”

With the Football Association having contacted the bitter North West rivals to remind of them of their responsibilities, both Liverpool and United have taken steps to ease the growing tension surrounding the fixture.

And Dalglish, who reiterated he doesn’t expect any movement at Anfield during the final few days of the transfer window, said: “We have got our house in order and I’m sure along the East Lancs Road they will be saying exactly the same thing.

“The best thing for everybody to be focused on is the football pitch, and that’s where we want people’s attention to be on

“If something goes off, then it goes off. If it’s bad news, then there is not much anyone else could have done about it.

“I don’t think either of the two football clubs can be held responsible if it doesn’t go as well as everybody hopes it will do.

“On the previous evidence, the two sets of fans are becoming more respectful for each other.

“They won’t be sending Christmas cards to each other, but they are becoming more respectful.

“If we all act in a professional, responsible manner, there should not be any problem.”

Dalglish will make a late decision on whether to give Craig Bellamy a third start in a week after his goalscoring exploits against Bolton Wanderers and City.

Andy Carroll, Maxi Rodriguez and Martin Kelly are all pressing for a recall, while Jay Spearing is expected to be available after missing the last three games with a hamstring problem.