Liverpool FC

Coutinho braced for ‘intense’ Merseyside derby

Philippe Coutinho has revealed he feels the same intensity in Merseyside derbies as Liverpool fans.

Everton will travel to Anfield this weekend as the Reds maintain their top four place by extending an unbeaten home record against their rivals to 18 years.

Coutinho and compatriot Roberto Firmino are likely to have minimal preparation for the 228th clash between the sides when they return from representing Brazil.

The playmaker missed Liverpool’s previous derby win in December due to injury and is relishing renewing acquaintances in Saturday’s high noon showdown.

He said: “The rivalry is like any derby – it’s intense.

 

“I’ve experienced these games both home and away and the intensity is equal with the fans.

“You’re always on TV, it’s one of the most difficult games and I don’t think this one will be any different.

“The week before the game, you can’t wait to play and if you win, the level of joy you give to the fans is amazing.

“They’re the victories you always enjoy.”