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FA Cup semi-finals: Moyes claims Everton are underdogs

Everton manager David Moyes insists Liverpool will go into the Merseyside derby clash as favourites.

The Toffees are in with a realistic chance of finishing above the men from Anfield in the Premier League for the first time since 2005.

Liverpool are under scrutiny this term with Kenny Dalglish’s side drawing nine home games to leave them well off the pace at the top of the table.

However, Moyes is adamant Liverpool that Liverpool have the upper hand, after they won both League clashes between the teams this season.

Moyes said: “Liverpool will be favourites. They have beaten us twice this year, haven't they? They have to go into the game as favourites and we will go there and play.”

Thrilled

The Everton manager was, understandably, thrilled to have secured a trip to Wembley a few weeks after celebrating 10 years in charge at Goodison Park. Everton, five times winners, last lifted the trophy in 1995 and were beaten in the final three years ago by Chelsea.

Moyes added: “I think anybody would think going to a Semi Final would be an achievement, whether you have been there one year or 10 years.

“But the thing about Everton is they have got a history of being in Finals, Semi Finals, of winning things. I have not been in as many as I would like to have but I actually think there are mitigating circumstances for that in a way.

“But Everton as a football club are used to it, it's been there many times before and it isn't a strange place for them.” Liverpool's rich FA Cup history has seen them crowned winners seven times, the last of which came in 2006.

Everton full-back Leighton Baines, who grew up in the city, knows exactly what the showdown means to supporters of both clubs.

He said: “It's massive for the city and, being a local lad, I know what it means to everyone. I've got family and friends that are red and blue so it will be an exciting week building up to the game.”