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Vladimir Smicer: The key to winning a Merseyside derby

In eight derby appearances across his six seasons in a red shirt, Vladimir Smicer experienced defeat just once.

And the Istanbul hero has a word of advice for the current crop ahead of the latest clash with the Toffees, insisting they must be ready for a physical battle if they are to claim another win over their old rivals.

“I have good memories [from playing in Merseyside derbies] and most of the games we won,” Smicer told Liverpoolfc.com.

“It was always a massive game, a tough game, especially when you play away from home. When you play at home you feel safe and you have the backing of your fans but at Goodison Park it’s a really tough place.