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Jurgen Klopp believes Liverpool's ability to keep Wayne Rooney under wraps will be key to Sunday's Merseyside derby.

England's all-time record goal scorer will be playing in the highly-charged fixture for the first time since January 2004 following his return to Goodison last summer.

Rooney has netted eight times in all competitions so far this season and Klopp is an admirer of the 32-year-old.

"When I was in Germany he was an outstanding big player," Klopp said.

"I had no idea whether there was criticism in England or whether he didn't get the credit for all the things he did for Man United and England. I have no clue.

(Image: Peter Byrne/PA Wire)

"Since I've been here, he didn't have the best time at Man United but he still scored the winner against us. He's still a fantastic player and he's shown that.

"I'm not sure if it's allowed but I like Wayne Rooney as a person. I've always liked him as a player.

"I would be silly not to worry about Rooney, but if you only worry about him that would be another big mistake.

"I have all the respect you need for playing against this football team. But it's not about what I say.

"We need to show that respect on the pitch by defending in the right way and playing them in the right way."