Marco Silva has urged his Everton players to ‘enjoy’ the Merseyside derby.
Wednesday’s 234th meeting with Liverpool will be the first of an Anfield double-header for the Blues after also being drawn together in the FA Cup third round.
Everton are hoping to banish a win-less run on their former stomping ground against the current Premier League leaders which now dates back over 20 years.
But Silva has urged the visitors’ players and fans alike should embrace the prospect of facing Jurgen Klopp’s side on their latest trip across Stanley Park.
He said: “When you play at Anfield it is a fantastic atmosphere to play in.
“For sure it will be a tough game. It is a special game for the city and the fans.
“We must go there and embrace the challenge with big courage, like we did last season – let’s go and enjoy it.
“We haven’t won there for a long time – it’s a great opportunity for us to change that. It can have a very good impact.”
Another defeat for Everton is expected to heighten calls for Silva’s departure, with the result potentially plunging the club back into the relegation zone.
Despite overseeing a dismal return of just one in their last five league games, however, Silva insists recent fortunes have not altered his mindset or approach.
“Nothing changed in my feeling for the job. At some times in the season I was more happy. It is what it is,” added the Everton manager.
“My work-rate here, what I demand from my players doesn’t change but of course we are not happy with the results or the position in the table.”