Lucas Leiva insists Liverpool require no reminders about the significance of Monday's Merseyside derby because of the local influence of Steven Gerrard and Jamie Carragher.
The Reds will surrender top spot in the Premier League on Saturday if Manchester United defeat Bolton, but Rafa Benitez's men would be able to reclaim top spot with victory over Everton.
Liverpool welcome their rivals from across Stanley Park in the league on Monday and then in the FA Cup one week later in two eagerly awaited derbies.
And Brazilian midfielder Lucas - who is expected to be named among Benitez's substitutes following Xabi Alonso's return to fitness - has no doubts regarding the importance of the double-header.
"It is always a massive game against Everton," Lucas told the club's official website.
"The preparation for a derby game is always different, especially with Stevie and Carra around. We can see in their faces how much they want to win this game and that inspires us.
"We know how important these games are for the club and the supporters as well. We want to stay at the top of the Premier League and we want to progress in the FA Cup so we don't need any motivation.
"It is good we can play them both at Anfield with our supporters behind us and it gives us a lot of confidence, so we have to try to make sure we win.
"Always the derby is a difficult game and it is also a different game. We had a good win at Everton earlier this season so we know what we need to do.
"These are two massive games and we have to be ready."
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