Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard claims he loves the Merseyside derby, and can’t wait for the banter that Everton will inevitably throw his way at Goodison Park…
Steven Gerrard is well aware that there will be no love lost during what will be his final Merseyside derby this weekend, and claims he is ready for anything the Everton fans may throw at him, as reported by the BBC.
SEE MORE:
Liverpool’s Daniel Sturridge Warns Everton He’s Ready To Fire On All Cylinders
Everton v Liverpool Combined XI Ahead Of Merseyside Derby With Sterling And Sturridge Helping Edge The Reds Ahead
Everton v Liverpool: Five Key Battles Of The Merseyside Derby Including Martin Skrtel Against Romelu Lukaku
The talismanic Liverpool captain will be heading to MLS side LA Galaxy at the end of the season, so this will be the last time he will face Everton in the Premier League.
The 34-year-old claims he enjoys the added edge that inevitably goes hand in hand with the Merseyside match, and is well prepared for any “banter” that the opposing crowd may direct his way.
“I love the banter with Everton fans. It’s what it’s all about. It’s about rivalries,” he said.
“I don’t mind it at all. Bring it on, as far as I’m concerned.”
There is still a chance that the two sides could meet in the Europa League, but at this point that seems unlikely.
Gerrard believes this will be his last game against Everton, and intends to enjoy every second of it.
“It will be my last derby and it will be someone else’s turn to be in the spotlight,” he continued.
“I love playing against Everton. I’ve got friends and family members who are big Blues and it’s all about the bragging rights in the city.
“It’s a bit different from a normal league game, but I’m looking forward to that one and hopefully I can add to my good derby record.”
The recently retired England international has been prolific in previous meetings, scoring ten goals in 32 derby day appearances. At this point he will not be able to match Ian Rush’s record of 25 goals, but it is still a record he can be proud of.