Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez criticized Manchester United boss Alex Ferguson, saying the Scottish tactician keeps playing 'mind games'. The Reds have a substantial chance to go 10 points clear of third-placed United in the Premier League, as they are facing minnows Stoke City on Saturday. But Ferguson stated that Liverpool, who haven't claimed the prestigious title in 18 years, might not be able to handle the pressure. "I was surprised but I have to talk about facts," Benitez was quoted by Sky Sports as saying. "I think they (United) are nervous because we are at the top of the table. "But I want to be clear. I don't want to play mind games too early and I think that they want to start."