Hodgson believes the Merseyside derby is one of the most passionate in the world and can't wait for Sunday's visit across Stanley Park.
"I am looking forward to it. It would've been nice if we could have been in a better position though," said the boss.
"I'm sure my colleague David [Moyes] would be saying the same thing. It's a bit unusual to see a derby with both teams down there but I'm pretty sure we'll see both teams in a better position for the next one.
"I suppose there is extra importance because both of us are desperately in need of points - but it would be nice if we could get them.
"In terms of passion I think this derby stands up there with the best ones. If you are talking about derbies which excite all the people within the city, then you have to think of the ones from Glasgow and Milan too.
"If you are talking about pure derbies, then Chelsea versus Fulham certainly doesn't compare to Liverpool and Everton - only Milan and Glasgow can do that."
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