Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers has insisted that his side are still the top club on Merseyside, despite finishing below rivals Everton last season.

The Reds go into this weekend's derby five points behind their neighbours, but Rodgers does not believe that there has been a power shift in the North West.

"I don't believe there is a power shift on Merseyside. This is a club which traditionally has been the top side. It is still the top club here," The Mirror quotes him as saying.

"Everton finished above us last year and have had a good season this year. We ­obviously want to improve next year. I believe we are in the process of doing that.

"This was the year for building the base. Then next year we have to really push on and find that consistency."

Liverpool and Everton played out a 2-2 draw when they met in the league earlier this season.