Let’s take Mersey derby frustration out on Sunderland, urges Everton FC midfielder Marouane Fellaini

Marouane Fellaini, Everton FC

EVERTON FCs wounded players are desperate to take their derby frustration out on Sunderland tomorrow, declared Marouane Fellaini.

Both the Blues’ squad and supporters are still smarting from their 3-0 defeat at Anfield on Tuesday, but Fellaini insists that setback has only fuelled their desire to reach an FA Cup semi-final at Wembley.

And the Belgian international says the backing of a sold-out Goodison Park in full throat will be key to lifting morale both on and off the pitch on Saturday.

* Read more: Everton FC midfielder Marouane Fellaini longs for cup memory to savour after twice being losing finalist

The 24-year-old said: “At training on Wednesday you could tell we were still angry and hurt, because we knew we hadn’t played well. But come Friday it will be all concentration on Sunderland.

“Saturday is very important. It’s a big game for the season. Every player now is completely focussing on the cup and trying to get to Wembley.

“It’s important that the stadium is full and the supporters give everything for the team. It was a difficult night on Tuesday but we all have to get on with it.”

While the Toffees had entered Tuesday night’s Merseyside derby unbeaten in nine games, Liverpool were keen to make amends after a demoralising defeat by Sunderland at the Stadium of Light last weekend.

And the Black Cats on-loan defender says Wayne Bridge says confidence is high in the Sunderland camp ahead of the cup tie.