MANCHESTER UNITED legend Rio Ferdinand had an awkward exchange with Liverpool supporters ahead of the Merseyside Derby on Saturday.

The 44-year-old was on punditry duty alongside Jules Breach, Phil Jagielka and Peter Crouch for TNT Sports.

However, just before going on air he was given a "lukewarm" welcome from fans.

Breach said: "You got a warm reception as you stepped up here Rio, didn't you."

To which Ferdinand responded: "Lukewarm. It's better than when I played here I've got to say that!"

Breach then recalled the moment he greeted a group of fans waiting outside Anfield, adding: "He said 'hello' and I think one person just went, 'hiya!'"

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Ferdinand, joking around, then said: "Alright Jules!"

The former England defender then went on to speak about his experiences of playing at Anfield for Man Utd.

Liverpool fans were out in full voice ahead of the match.

Hundreds of supporters lined the streets outside Anfield to welcome the Reds into the stadium.

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Meanwhile, Everton boss Sean Dyche suggested that the rivalry between his team and Liverpool is the biggest in the Premier League.

He told TNT Sports: "It's a proper derby. This is the biggest one I know.

"Every manager should be passionate in what they do. I've never properly fallen out with a manager or held a grudge.

"We just both want the best for our teams. No problem with showing passion and commitment to the cause."

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