Coutinho: I know classic derbies
Philippe Coutinho will experience a Merseyside derby for the first time on Sunday but the playmaker has no qualms about meeting Everton, having played in the Brazilian equivalent for Vasco da Gama as a youngster.
The Reds welcome their neighbours to Anfield this weekend, with the battle for league position an added subplot to the usual city bragging rights available to the victors.
Along with fellow January signing Daniel Sturridge, Coutinho is likely to feature in his maiden derby, although he revealed his teammates have been explaining exactly the importance of the clash.
"They have mentioned that it is a very important game," the No.10 told Liverpoolfc.com. "The players are all excited and we are already thinking about the derby.
"It's always wonderful to play in a derby. Where I played in Brazil, the derby was Vasco-Flamengo.
"It was always very special when you could hear the supporters shouting and making noise. I hope I can enjoy the game and we can get a good result.
"Like every other derby, with one side trying to beat the other, it will be like a battle this weekend."
The 20-year-old midfielder has slipped into Barclays Premier League football effortlessly to date and played an integral role during the Reds' 6-0 hammering of Newcastle last weekend.
Now the Brazilian hopes to repeat that performance and contribute to a positive result which will send the masses at Anfield home happy.
"Of course, it is very important and I hope to have a good game for Liverpool and come out with a positive result," he continued.
"It is very important. It is a classic, a derby as people say. There are two places in the league up for grabs and I think it will be a highly-disputed match.
"It will be exciting for the supporters and I hope we all enjoy the match."
