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Carragher proud of winning derby record

Liverpool and Everton couldn't be separated at Anfield © PA Photos

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Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher insists he can be proud of his record against Everton as he heads towards retirement.

Vice-captain Carragher became only the sixth Liverpool player to make 30 Merseyside derby appearances in Sunday's 0-0 draw at Anfield - joining Ian Rush, Bruce Grobbelaar, Alan Hansen, Ian Callaghan and Ronnie Whelan.

The centre-back, 35, put in a solid display in a match bereft of clear chances for either side. And the point means he will finish his 16-year Anfield first-team career with a derby record of 17 wins, eight draws and five defeats.

Carragher told the Liverpool Echo: "There was a lot of talk before the game about the fact that it was my last derby and people were saying, 'We want to win for Jamie' and stuff like that.

"But also in the back of my head, I knew that Evertonians would have loved to be able to say they beat me in my last derby.

"I wouldn't say I'm pleased with a draw but we've gone another one undefeated. I'm pleased with my record in these games.

"I've always loved playing in derbies. I've always said for me it's the biggest game and I will miss them. I will be watching them next season and I will probably be even more nervous. When you play you can do something about it, but watching is very nerve-racking."

Marouane Fellaini missed a great first-half chance for Everton when he fired wide from a Leighton Baines free-kick, while Daniel Sturridge and Steven Gerrard were unable to convert opportunities for Liverpool after the break.

The main talking point of the 220th Merseyside derby, though, was Sylvain Distin's disallowed goal 11 minutes into the second half. Everton centre-back Distin climbed above Carragher to head in a Baines corner, but referee Michael Oliver ruled that Victor Anichebe had fouled Liverpool keeper Pepe Reina.

It was the second time this season a goal had been disallowed controversially in a Merseyside derby. Liverpool forward Luis Suarez had what he thought was a late winner ruled out for offside in October's 2-2 draw at Goodison Park.

Asked about Distin's disallowed goal, Carragher said: "I haven't seen a replay but the referee spoke to Anichebe before the corner about getting in front of Pepe Reina. I think that's what he gave it for. I don't think it was for Distin on me.

"They might be complaining about that but we can bring up the goal Luis Suarez had disallowed late on at Goodison.

"We're disappointed we didn't win and I am sure Everton will be pleased. Credit to them as obviously it's a better result for them than it is for us. If you go away from home and don't get beat in a derby game, it's a good result."

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