Liverpool midfielder Javier Mascherano says the Merseyside derby isn't the most intense he's experienced.

Ahead of their clash with Everton this weekend, Mascherano says: "I have played in some great derbies in the world and they are all unique occasions in their own right.

"In Argentina I played for River Plate against Boca Juniors many, many times. That is the biggest derby match of them all back home.

"I have won some and lost some. Nothing compares to River versus Boca. They are always competitive and the fans are in the stadium half a day before kick-off.

"The city would virtually stand still waiting for the result. And playing for Corinthians (in Brazil) the derbies got even crazier. Their derby is with Palmeiras and if you lose you can't go out for weeks."

Now he is relishing Merseyside derbies, adding: "I haven't lost to Everton in my Liverpool career. Every player loves being in the big games and I am the same.

"They bring the very best out of everyone. These derbies, though, are more civilised in England, people know you can win or lose. In Argentina and Brazil they have a different mentality and winning is all they understand."