Manchester United assistant manager Mike Phelan insists that Patrice Evra will not be spared playing against Liverpool in Saturday’s FA Cup clash.

“If he is fit, he is considered to play like any other player,” said Phelan.

It is the first time the two rivals have met since Evra levelled racism allegations at Luis Suarez, who ended up being handed an eight-match ban.

Suarez will still be suspended this weekend, a fact that is only likely to heighten the tension at Anfield.

But, especially bearing in mind their injury problem, United will not countenance the idea of leaving out Evra for Saturday lunchtime’s Cup fourth round tie.

“It wouldn’t be a consideration,” said Phelan. “Patrice Evra is a football player who plays for Manchester United.

“If he is fit, he is considered to play like any other player.

“What has happened has happened. What has been said has been said.

“You are talking about a football match now and I think it will be a very good FA Cup tie.”

Earlier this season, Sir Alex Ferguson left Wayne Rooney out of his starting line-up to face Liverpool due to the adverse reaction the striker receives in his home city and, last season, the United boss did not even take the England frontman to former club Everton.

Already without Rio Ferdinand, Anderson, Tom Cleverley, Ashley Young, Michael Owen and long-term absentees Darren Fletcher and Nemanja Vidic going into Sunday’s 2-1 win at Arsenal, United lost Phil Jones with torn ankle ligaments, Nani left the stadium wearing a protective boot and Rooney, Evra and Michael Carrick also suffered knocks.