Phil: This is why I wanted to be a footballer
Philippe Coutinho has described the Merseyside derby as the type of fixture that fuelled his desire to be a professional footballer.
Local bragging rights are at stake when Liverpool take on Everton at Goodison Park today and the importance of the game is not lost on the Reds squad, according to the Brazilian.
Coutinho, who scored when Brendan Rodgers' side visited their city rivals two seasons ago, says he is regularly reminded by fans just how vital it is to get a result against the Toffees.
And the passion surrounding such an occasion is one of the reasons the No.10 was so eager to make it in the game when he was younger.
"It's always good to play these big games and local derbies," he told the Telegraph.
"I've played a few in Liverpool here already, and I had a chance to play in Brazil also for Vasco [da Gama] against Flamengo, the local rivals from Rio.
"It's this sort of game that players like to play in and obviously I like the atmosphere and the fans, all the preparations throughout the week.
"These games are why you want to be a football player and every Liverpool fan who approaches me says we have to win this game on Sunday!"
Coutinho also reflected on the weight of expectation associated with playing for Liverpool, which he admits is greater than at other clubs.
He does not allow the pressure to affect him, however, and is focused on taking each game as it comes as he pursues the 'ultimate objective' of bringing silverware to Anfield.
"We know how big a club Liverpool is and the expectation from the fans and from everyone else," he added.
"But when I go out onto the pitch and play I try not to think of pressure from the outside, I'd rather focus on playing football and trying to achieve and play well.
"Winning a trophy is every footballer's ultimate objective, it's what will make you be remembered as a great player.
"So that's what we are looking for, to try and achieve that at Liverpool."