Liverpool midfielder Lucas Leiva has insisted that he and his teammates must not let the "emotion" of Saturday's showdown against Manchester United affect them.

The Reds face their arch rivals at Old Trafford equal on two victories, one draw and one defeat in the Premier League this season.

While Lucas is aware of the magnitude of this fixture every season, the Brazilian has claimed that the team need to approach the clash like any other game.

"You feel when you get there that it's a different game, but nothing is too different in terms of the football," Lucas told the club's official website.

"We have to leave the excitement and emotion for the fans because that's what they should do - be excited about this game. We are excited but in the right way."

Liverpool are currently seventh in the table while United are fifth due to a better goal difference.