Liverpool defender Jose Enrique has spoken of the importance placed by supporters on today's Merseyside derby.

The Reds meet their city rivals Everton at Anfield, and the Spaniard has said that it is the atmosphere created by the fans in these games that lets him know how big the derbies are.

"The best thing for a player is the derby atmosphere," Enrique told the Daily Mail. "In the stadium it is incredible, it is like you are playing Barcelona. If you win, then after the game and you go out for dinner it means a lot for people.

"I think I know two Everton fans. One taxi driver I remember told me he supported them and we started talking about football.

"The other I met in [Liverpool City Centre] and he asked to have a picture with me but no-one has ever said anything bad to me."

A win today would take Brendan Rodgers's side to within two points of their neighbours in the Premier League.