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Steven Gerrard delivered an honest verdict on whether he wanted to beat Everton or Manchester United more during his playing career. In an interview, the Liverpool legend and current Rangers manager acknowledged the unique and intense nature of both rivalries. Gerrard revealed he harbored a deep hatred for both Everton and Manchester United but implied that beating Everton, Liverpool’s local Merseyside rivals, carried a special significance due to the proximity and history of the fixture. He described it as a rivalry where the feelings run closer, despite acknowledging the historical quality and stature of the Manchester United clashes.
He explained that the Merseyside Derby with Everton is "closer" as a rivalry than the one with Manchester United, mainly because of geographical and local factors, commenting that United is "not at the top of the table anymore," which reflects the shifting dynamics of football power in England. Gerrard’s comments suggest that the intensity and emotion derived from playing Everton were more personal and immediate, given Liverpool and Everton share a city, while matches against Manchester United carried a different kind of challenge and historical weight.
Gerrard’s views reinforce the notion that while matches against Manchester United are highly prestigious, the local derby with Everton is uniquely bitter and meaningful to players and fans alike. This sentiment is consistent with the perspective of many Liverpool supporters who see the Merseyside Derby as the fiercest rivalry, despite the historical prominence of the Old Trafford fixture.
The context of these remarks is from a candid interview where Gerrard also touched on lighter topics but remained clear about his passion and competitive spirit when facing these rivals. Ultimately, he confirmed that his competitive desire to win was strong against both clubs, but the Merseyside rivalry perhaps felt more personal and intense on a day-to-day level.
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