Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard has admitted that he "loves the banter" with Everton supporters ahead of what could be his final Merseyside derby.

If the Reds avoid their local rivals in the Europa League, Saturday's clash will be Gerrard's final match against Everton before he joins MLS side Los Angeles Galaxy in the summer.

Yesterday, manager Brendan Rodgers said that Everton fans will be glad to see the back of the midfielder, who has scored 10 goals in 32 matches against the Toffees.

"I love the banter with Everton fans," Gerrard told the club's official website. "It's what it's all about. It's about rivalries and big games of football.

"I'm up for all that. I don't mind it at all. Bring it on as far as I'm concerned. I've got respect for all the Everton players and the Everton fans. I think they're a terrific football club, but once that whistle goes I want to beat them. That's a good problem for me."

Gerrard, who is a lifelong Liverpool supporter, joined the Reds when he was eight years old.