Jurgen Klopp has hailed Liverpool and Everton’s bond over Hillsborough as ‘the best story I have ever heard in football’.
The Reds manager will experience his first taste of a Merseyside derby at Goodison Park when both sides face off in Monday night’s 227th showdown.
A white-hot atmosphere is anticipated between both sets of fans but Klopp believes the rivalry is underpinned greater by their unity over the 1989 tragedy.
Everton have regularly supported Liverpool during the 27 years since 96 fans were unlawfully killed, including building a permanent memorial at Goodison.
And Klopp admits that the warmth which exists between both clubs and its supporters transcends its traditional battle lines and Stanley Park.
He said: “Last year before the home game against Everton, I met legends of both clubs and it was interesting to listen to their stories.
“I love the history. Between these clubs there’s been a lot of big things; finals.
“Both clubs showed their real character when they reacted on Hillsborough and I have to say this is the best story I have ever heard in football.
“I love it that in these moments you really forget that you are rivals. Then when you meet in the matches, you fight for three points.
“I’m part of Liverpool Football Club. It is really easy for me to accept the importance of the game but I can’t say Everton has been my enemy since I was 12 years old.
“I like how Liverpool live with these two big clubs in the city. Until now I never had any issue with any Evertonian fans, taxi drivers or whatever.
“A lot of nice people support Everton. I’m quite good in adapting in these situations. I’m already in a very positive mood.
“I’ve not watched a lot of these games but I know about the big rivalry and the big years of both clubs when first and second place came from Liverpool.
“I respect the desire of Everton but we are Liverpool FC so we want to win the game too.”