Source: Team_Talk
Rooney ready for 'massive game'
Wayne Rooney says his connections with Everton add even more significance to his visits to Liverpool ahead of Saturday's clash. [LNB] The England frontman came through the youth ranks and started his professional career with Liverpool's fierce local rivals the Toffees before making the move to United in 2004. [LNB]Rooney says that factor, coupled with United's own intense rivalry with the Reds, makes trips to Anfield particularly momentous for him. [LNB]"With my Everton connections and the fact all my family are big Everton fans, it makes games against Liverpool a bit more special," he told the Daily Express. [LNB]"Of course, it's a big day for United with their rivalry with Liverpool but, for me, it is a massive game. To beat Liverpool is always a great feeling and a great day when you do that."[LNB]United have suffered defeat on their last three visits to Liverpool, and while 25-year-old Rooney is expecting another testing encounter on Saturday lunch-time, he hopes to halt that winless streak.[LNB]He added: "Liverpool is always, for me, the toughest place to go and win a game. [LNB]"They'll be pushing to get into the top four and, with the signings they have, they're capable of doing that so we'll have to be aware of them and try to beat them this time."[LNB]While United's recent results at Anfield have been disappointing, Rooney recalls his first trip to the ground with Sir Alex Ferguson's men back in 2005, when he scored the winning goal in the visitors' 1-0 triumph. [LNB]He added: "I was a mascot for Everton in a derby at Anfield once but my best memory of going there was my first game for United at Anfield. We won 1-0 and I scored the winner at the Kop, so that was a great day."[LNB]United follow up their trip to Liverpool with another blockbuster clash at home to neighbours Manchester City the following weekend. [LNB]Rooney is predicting a close derby encounter but is certain his side can snatch a win against their local rivals. [LNB]He said: "It's going to be a massive game for both clubs and the city as a whole. [LNB]"It will be a really close game and a difficult game but, with us being at home, we're confident we can get the three points."
