Virgil van Dijk claims Liverpool will want to win Sunday’s Merseyside derby more than Everton.
Victory at Goodison Park in this weekend’s 233rd meeting between the sides will see the Reds take tentative strides towards a long-awaited Premier League title.
Everton have not won a derby against their neighbours since 2010 and had hopes of a point at Anfield in December dashed by Divock Origi’s late goal.
But Van Dijk believes that Jurgen Klopp’s side have a greater motivation when they step across Stanley Park for the latest clash with the Blues.
He said; “Obviously I’ve played in the Old Firm, which is really intense.
“When I played [for Celtic], Rangers were even lower level-wise than they are right now so it was pretty easy back them.
“But this is the Premier League and it’s totally different. It will be a game that can go either way and sometimes in these type of games it is who wants it the most.
“We are in a position where we definitely want it the most and hopefully we can show it on the pitch.”
The Holland captain also dismissed suggestions Liverpool’s win in the corresponding fixture derailed Everton’s season or will be a key factor in this game.
“Wow, I didn’t even know [people said] that. It’s not going to change the game,” added Van Dijk.
“Their approach will be different to what has been going on and they had a good result on Tuesday night (against Cardiff City). They now have a good feeling.
“But it will be a totally different game and I’m looking forward to it. We should all look forward to it and all be full of confidence as well.”