Why Alisson Becker loves the Merseyside derby

He said: "I love derbies. I think it's something that makes football special – the stories behind games, atmosphere, the supporters.

"I know how it is big for the city, how big it is for the supporters and how massive this game is for us.

"You know when you go in a derby – no matter if you're favourite or if you are playing good all season – it's a different game, the opponents always give the best of themselves.

"You have to do your best as well and I believe it will be a fantastic game."

The 8pm BST kick-off across Stanley Park is the first of the Reds' final five matches of the 2023-24 season.

Encounters with West Ham United, Tottenham Hotspur, Aston Villa and Wolverhampton Wanderers then await Jürgen Klopp's men.

Asked if he felt Liverpool required 15 points from 15 for a shot at lifting the title, Alisson replied: "We do. But I think we have to think only on the next challenge we have in front of us.

"Of course we need that they [Arsenal and Manchester City] drop points as well, but we have to do our job to at least have a chance at the end of the season. So, the next game is the most important for us."