Ask Mike Marsh which game he looks out for first when the fixtures are released and his answer is unequivocal – the Merseyside derby.

While fans may be divided on whether they prefer to beat Everton, Manchester United or another rival, there is no doubt in Marsh's mind which fixture he relishes most.

"The Everton fixture for me is the most important game - our traditional rivals," the first-team coach told Liverpoolfc.com.

"I know it's only three points but it's a local derby and there's pride at stake. I think the three points is worth a whole lot more in a derby game.

"It's just a great fixture. It's a fixture that has been in the top-flight for a long time now and it's two really good sides playing against other with no quarter asked or given.

"It's a special derby. People have said in recent times the friendliness has gone out of it and maybe it has a touch but it's still a special derby."

For Simon Mignolet, Kolo Toure, Mamadou Sakho and Aly Cissokho, Saturday will be their first experience of a Reds versus Blues clash.

Despite this being their derby debut, Marsh insists they are well prepared to cope with the frenzied atmosphere at Goodison Park on Saturday.

He said: "I don't think they need any advice off me.

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"They are a lot of experienced international players so they will play the game as it is and not the occasion.

"It's a derby game and a tough call as it could go one way or the other but they will play the game and enjoy it as best they can."

With a lot of players away on international duty for the past 10 days, starlets from the Academy have been able to come down to Melwood and express themselves in front of first-team boss, Brendan Rodgers.

As a former U18 coach in Kirkby, Marsh insists it is an invaluable experience for them and one they should make the most of.

He added: "We have had the vast majority of Academy players up at Melwood and they have all shown their way.

"It's a great opportunity to showcase yourself. It's okay people passing messages on to say how certain players are doing but there's nothing better than seeing it with the naked eye, so if the players come up and play and train well in front of the manager then it gives him food for thought."