- Coutinho expects big performance v Everton next weekend
- Reds on run of six wins in eight games, with two draws v Sevilla and Chelsea
- LFC’s no.10 in sparkling individual form too – three assists v Brighton
- SEE MORE: “Phil Coutinho is 92% Harlem Globetrotter” – Reds react to solid first half v Brighton
Liverpool’s genius no.10 Coutinho cannot wait for next weekend’s Merseyside Derby.
In fact, the Brazilian has promised to put on a show for the fans, who regard the Everton clash as the biggest of the season alongside the Manchester United game.
In Liverpool’s last game against Everton, Coutinho scored our crucial second goal with a majestic curled effort into the top corner having already beaten two players, which helped us in our bid to qualify for the Champions League.
“These are the games you prepare yourself to the maximum to give something back to the fans,” Coutinho told the Echo.
“It’s a classic game. These games are very, very attractive to play in – they’re important games.
“I’ve played in quite a few already and I’ve really enjoyed playing against them.
“It’s a really important game for the city.
“There is a great deal of expectation among the supporters, so it’s a huge game.
“To score and win in that game is special. It gives you a particularly good feeling.”
Everton were in atrocious form, but have turned an immediate corner under Sam Allardyce. They’ve won their past two games, so it’s not going to be the cakewalk many assumed a fortnight back.
Allardyce will set Everton up very defensively, but they surely can’t park the bus in a Merseyside Derby, with good players like Wayne Rooney and Gylfi Sigurdsson certain to start.
To be fair, if they do park the bus, Liverpool have shown this season that we can win those matches very, very comfortably.
No longer do teams play with a flat-back eight and guarantee themselves a point at Anfield. It guarantees them a hiding.