Liverpool midfielder Philippe Coutinho says he is looking forward to an ‘intense’ Merseyside derby against Everton at Anfield on Saturday.

The Reds will host the Toffees for the 228th time, with only six points currently separating the fourth-placed Reds and the Blues, who sit seventh in the Premier League standings.

The Reds required a stoppage-time winner from Sadio Mane to snatch all three points from the reverse fixture at Goodison Park earlier this season, and Coutinho is anticipating another hard-fought and passionate affair this time around.

The 24-year-old says his side can expect an ‘intense’ and ‘difficult’ clash against the Toffees when the two sides lock horns in the Merseyside derby.

‘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,’ Coutinho told the Liverpool website.

‘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 Brazilian international claims that their arch-rivalry carries an added significance for players, as well as supporters.

‘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,’ he added.

A win this weekend would see Liverpool solidify their place among the top four, and Coutinho is determined to end the campaign strongly to secure a return to the Champions League.

Coutinho went on to say that Jurgen Klopp’s main objective for this season is to finish in the top four on the Premier League table.

‘It’s very important, obviously, it’s our aim [to finish in the top four],’ Coutinho said.

‘All the games are like finals and if we’re going to achieve our aim we need a lot of points.’

Liverpool will now host Everton at Anfield when the two sides meet in the Premier League on Saturday.

Kick-off has been scheduled for 13:30.