Martin Skrtel is relishing the prospect of doing battle with a rejuvenated Everton when English football's fiercest local rivalry resumes on Saturday.
The Slovakian expects to wake up with a few bruises on Sunday morning - but insists it won't matter if
"It will be a very difficult game," Skrtel told Liverpoolfc.tv. "Every player has to make special preparations for this game. It'll be a fight and it will be fiery from the first minute to the last.
"Of course it's normal to come off the pitch after a derby with a few knocks. But against Everton you forget any pain, any bruises or any knocks. Every player tries to do his best for their team.
"It's a big derby, a game against Everton. It's a special game for everyone in this city, so everyone is desperate to play.
"The rivalry between
Skrtel believes the in-form Tim Cahill represents a major threat for Everton ahead of the lunchtime kick off.
"He's a good player," said the 25-year-old. "Last time I played against him he scored. He's very dangerous, especially from set pieces in our box. But our defence is now working very well. We can keep focused on him.
"He's not the tallest but he can break into the right places in the box. That's why he's dangerous - because he's in the right place at the right time."
One man who could be key in defending set pieces is Sotirios Kyrgiakos.
Skrtel is in no doubt the Greek international is ready for his first taste of derby action.
"Sotirios has done very well, especially against teams like Stoke, Wolves and
"He's a defender's defender. He likes to play hard football - he likes to tackle and head the ball.
"He's a nice guy too. You can speak with him about anything you want or joke with him."
Meanwhile, Skrtel remains confident he can win major honours with
"We showed our quality in finishing second last year with a club record points in the Premier League," he said. "This season we've been a bit unlucky. I know this team has quality. I hope and I believe we will show this quality in the future."
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