BR: Special derby can act as springboard

The rivalry is renewed for the 223rd time over the weekend, with both clubs enduring a slower start to the campaign than envisaged. For both outfits, the encounter offers an opportunity to right earlier wrongs and set a marker for the rest of the term.

"In the league with us winning two games and losing three, it's not ideal but there are still positives to take out of it," said the Reds boss in his pre-match briefing at Melwood.

"If I look at the corresponding games last season, there's only a one point difference and we ended up doing okay. We know we need to be better, we know we need to improve our performance levels.

"The derby gives us an opportunity to do that - it provides a platform to go on a good, consistent run. Last season, we had a great spell after our win and I think we collected 36 points from then."

However, Rodgers is cognizant of the crafty threat Roberto Martinez's men will present.

"They're a good side, with very good players. They're different to us, but they've got a lot of quality," he said.

"They've probably not got the results they've wanted, but Roberto is an excellent manager.

"He's done a great job there and being a derby game, it will be tough for us."

The Liverpool tactician is relishing a "really special match between two great football clubs." He reminisced about the home clash in 2013-14, in which the Reds cruised to a captivating 4-0 triumph at the end of January.

"I've loved every second of it, they've been great games both home and away," he said of Merseyside's main attraction. "But of course, the performance at Anfield last season was really special.

"Everton were on a good run of form, they were building and developing well, and they probably came to Anfield with a view of winning, but we were exceptional.

"Every aspect of our game was superb - our counter-attack and our finishing was fantastic. It will be a tough game, but a brilliant one for supporters."