Philippe Coutinho Ready To Make Amends At The Derby

Yes, Spartak Moscow’s visit to Anfield on Wednesday is probably the most important game of the week (how wild is that of a statement). In reality, the one most supporters want to win the most is the Merseyside Derby, coming the Sunday following the Spartak match. Everton and their new manager Sam Allardyce come to Anfield but will almost definitely have to face Philippe Coutinho, who is ready to make a mess of them. Considering this also might be one of the last one he plays in, he’s looking to give back to the fans as well. I guess in the form of a goal or two.

"These are the games you prepare yourself to the maximum to give something back to the fans," said Coutinho to the Echo on Sunday.

"It's a classic game. These games are very, very attractive to play in - they're important games.

"I've played in quite a few already and I've really enjoyed playing against them."

Coutinho himself has actually never outright lost to the Blues since joining the Reds in 2013 (there’s been a couple disappointing draws, though), and is looking to continue that little streak. He scored against them the last time we met Everton in April of this year, contributing to the 3-1 win, and has been instrumental to us in the past matches leading up to this. Frankly, for him to disappear as he is wont to do, will be the biggest disappointment.

Everton themselves, coming off a disastrous start to the season, are feeling that new manager push. It may have been Huddersfield but the Toffees got out with a 2-0 win on Saturday, and dismantled West Ham 4-0 on Wednesday. Those scorelines won’t matter when Sunday comes around, and Coutinho knows it.

"It's a really important game for the city,” he added.

"There is a great deal of expectation among the supporters, so it's a huge game. To score and win in that game is special. It gives you a particularly good feeling."

May those feelings last until the Summer.