Philippe Coutinho sends defiant message to Liverpool about Everton
Liverpool midfielder Philippe Coutinho isn't worried about Everton ahead of Saturday's Merseyside derby
Philippe Coutinho insists Liverpool shouldn’t worry about Everton’s form given Jurgen Klopp’s side are sitting above the Merseyside rivals in the Premier League table.
The Reds will host their derby rivals at Anfield in Saturday’s early kick-off in the Premier League as Klopp’s men look to move nine points clear of the Toffees.
Ronald Koeman’s outfit have rallied in the second half of the season thanks to Romelu Lukaku’s prolific form up front for Everton in the Premier League.
Indeed, the Belgium striker has scored 21 times and has made six assists in 28 games in the Premier League this term, which amounts to 41 per cent of the Merseyside club’s goals.
Coutinho, though, isn’t worried about the threat that Everton pose ahead of their derby meeting, highlighting Liverpool’s superior position on the Premier League table.
“I don’t think about [Everton’s form] or worry about that,” Coutinho is quoted as saying by Sky Sports.
“Right now, Liverpool is higher in the league, that’s the reality and that’s all we have to think about.
“We will be ready. The derby is a very special match for everyone, the fans and the players.
“We know what it means. The people of Liverpool live this match with so much emotion and this time it is even more because Everton have improved so much in recent weeks.
“We know it won’t be easy, but we know we have to win, for our fans, for our morale and for everybody.”
MORE: The latest Liverpool news and views
MORE: The latest Liverpool player tweets
The Brazil international has scored six goals and has made five assists in 22 games in the Premier League this season.
Liverpool have beaten Arsenal, Tottenham Hotspur and Burnley in their last three Premier League games at Anfield.
