Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp says today's derby at Everton is set up to be a classic.
With fans locked out of the game, Klopp insists the players must put on a show for the locals watching from home.
“I like to think that football is always a massive point in the city. I'm pretty sure it is. But you are right, there is an important role that we play (now)," he said.
“Look, the people in the city are used to dealing with difficult situations, that's how I see it.
"Usually when bad things happen, this city comes really together and they try to make the best of it. We try from a football point of view, for sure.
“We are both clubs from the city, the whole city is united and will be watching one football game. From that point of view, you are probably right, that it is even more important.
“A few months ago we were talking about whether football is really necessary and about its role in the society. From a very subjective point of view, I was pretty sure that it did."
