The view from Everton

How optimistic are you for the derby?

On early-season form, and playing at home, the head says I should be more confident than I am. After our performances over the last couple of years it is difficult to be too optimistic, even with the current league positions. Other than the first 20 minutes of the Rodwell derby I can't remember us turning up for a derby game for a couple of years now. March's capitulation still burns.

Are derbies really 'worth more than three points'?

Yes. The question is how much more? Certainly bragging rights in town fuel the banter, and you always want to be able to enjoy football chat with those in the wrong coloured shirt. A few decades ago the derbies meant more as they often decided titles and cups. Still, no matter what the three points does for your league position, during the derby few are actually thinking about league position.

What is the feeling among Everton fans after an unusually bright start to the season?

The positivity started from the summer. Pre-season was nothing special in terms of performance or results - not bad, not great. The difference is keeping the bigger players and bringing in a couple of new faces. Even without net spend the new signings lift the place. The fixture list also did us a favour. A big game under the lights at home to Manchester United was the perfect start in terms of a lively crowd to lift the players. They more than delivered and we were able to take a very positive mentality into the next run of fixtures.

Can the Blues remain in the top four for the rest of the season?

No. The squad is still far too small for that. Our first XI is more than capable of taking points from anybody this season, but it will be a struggle to maintain it over the whole season. Our target this year was to qualify for Europe and I think we should be able to do that. The next step is to close the gap on the top four. If one of those sides slips up we have an outside chance of being in the position to snatch a top four spot, but it depends on others slipping up rather than us taking fourth.

What advice would you give David Moyes?

Don't rest anyone would be a good start! Although I can't see that happening this time round. We've generally been playing well this season and getting results, with some good football thrown in as well. We just need to get back to that form after a couple of indifferent away performances.

Who has been your best player this season?

Baines has been our most consistent performer. He has continued his fine form from last season and is now a genuine challenger for Ashley Cole's England spot. Having said that, we wouldn't be fourth with only one player on form, there have been a few others who have started the season well.

Would you rather win on Sunday or finish above the Reds at the end of the season, and why?

I don't like losing to your boys, but league position is more important than one game. Also your question doesn't rule out the draw. Last season we gifted you six points and still finished a comfortable gap above you. Having said that, finishing above you but still being mid-table doesn't count for anything. We need to reach Europe so I'll take the three points, hope for Europe and not give much thought to where you finish.

If you could have one Liverpool player in the Everton team, who would it be?

The three obvious choices are Gerrard, Suarez and Lucas. Pretending any of this could happen, I'll put on my serious head. Gerrard is not getting any younger so I'd not take him any longer. Lucas would be the best choice. Our central midfield is good, but has limited strength in depth. Lucas would certainly mean we could free up Fellaini without weakening the centre.

Who will the Reds have to stop if they are to win?

Baines' delivery, Mirallas' running at pace, Fellaini's physical presence and Jelavic's finishing means we are a much more balanced team than previous seasons. Pienaar's absence may have a negative impact on Baines so Fellaini would have to be the one to be wary of. He is one that traditionally hasn't had good games in the derby but if he can keep his cool he has all the tools to dominate any game.

What is your score prediction?

Liverpool's tails will be up now they have won more league games than Arsenal at Anfield in 2012. But it's nearly November, and you still don't have many goals in the squad. Match that with our recent poor displays in derby games and I'd have to go for 1-1.