Abdoulaye Doucoure says Everton are determined to reignite their push for European qualification in Saturday’s Merseyside derby showdown at Anfield.

The Blues head into the match on the back of a 3-1 home defeat by league leaders Manchester City on Wednesday night.

Carlo Ancelotti’s side remain just five points behind the Premier League's top four, however, having played a game fewer than the teams above them in the table.

Everton will make the trip across Stanley Park buoyed by their impressive away form. The Blues have won five and drawn two of their past seven top-flight matches on the road.

Doucoure acknowledges Saturday’s game represents a stern test but says the squad boasts the belief and quality to achieve a positive result.  

“I think it is the best moment for us to have another game and go into this match against Liverpool,” Doucoure told evertontv.

“Of course, it is going to be a tough game and they are a very good side. 

“But we are eager to win that game. 

“We just need to start winning games as soon as possible to stay near to the top six. 

“We still have the chance to be in the top four or top six at the end of the season.”

Manchester City’s victory at Goodison was their 17th on the spin in all competitions and moved them 10 points clear at the top of the Premier League.

Pep Guardiola’s side were pushed hard by Everton, with Richarlison equalising after Phil Foden’s deflected opener.

The scores were locked at 1-1 when the clock ticked past the hour-mark but powerful strikes from Riyad Mahrez and Bernardo Silva took the game away from the Toffees.

“It was a very difficult game,” added Doucoure.

“I think our reaction [from the defeat to Fulham] and the attitude was very good. 

“We worked hard and everyone put in a good shift.

“In the second half, we believed more we could get something. 

“But we faced a difficult opponent, one of the best teams in the league. 

“We are going to learn from the game and aim to do well on Saturday.”