Ronald Koeman believes Everton have no reason to fear Liverpool in tomorrow’s Merseyside derby.
Koeman will experience his first visit to Anfield as Blues manager when his high-flying side attempt to end an 18-year hoodoo on their former stomping ground.
Not since September 1999 have Everton emerged victorious from the other side of Stanley Park and have failed in 18 subsequent attempts to do so.
Frustratingly they have also failed to take advantage of the Reds’ poor form in recent years despite going on to finish above them in the Premier League table.
But Koeman has dismissed concerns about the supposed Anfield fear factor ahead of tomorrow’s high noon showdown.
He said: “That shows a lot [about the past] but it’s a new season, it’s a new game, a new manager by Everton.
“I don’t know why [but] I heard a little bit about the last two seasons at Everton that maybe they were too afraid against Liverpool.
“Why do you need to be afraid to play against Liverpool?
“I don’t understand that.”
Everton held off Liverpool for large parts of Koeman’s maiden derby last December only to succumb to a 94th-minute strike from Sadio Mane.
And the Dutchman is eyeing a repeat of his side’s strong Goodison Park showing.
“We didn’t deserve to lose and we need to bring the same attitude again,” he added.
“Even with the injuries I still believe we have a strong team for Saturday and it’s a nice challenge.
“I think we showed at home how you need to play – with the right attitude, with passion and, of course, you need to control your emotions.”