Everton midfielder Cahill targets dream return against Liverpool

AFP - 19 October 2007 14:11

Everton´s Gary Naysmith (L) and Tim Cahill challenge Liverpool´s Steve Finnan during a Premier League match in 2006. Cahill believes beating Liverpool on 20 October would be the perfect end to his injury nightmare.

LIVERPOOL, England (AFP) - Everton midfielder Tim Cahill believes beating arch rivals Liverpool on Saturday would be the perfect end to his injury nightmare.

Australia midfielder Cahill should be involved when Rafa Benitez's side come to Goodison Park after returning to training this week for the first time since breaking his foot in March.

Playing in such an important game would make all the lonely hours of rehabilitation worth it to the Socceroos star, who has been pleased at the way Everton manager David Moyes has strengthened the side in his absence.

"It's been a bit lonely there with just me and Matt Connery (reserve team physio)," he said. "But watching from the sidelines, I have seen so much to make me excited.

"I have spoken to the gaffer a lot about myself and the team. I'm under no illusions. I'm not expecting to walk straight back in. But I just want to be a part of it now.

"The gaffer has created a squad and created players that will help the team. You look at our bench now compared to two years ago. It is really strong and that is the way it should be because players can't get complacent."

Cahill has made a big impact on previous Merseyside derbies, scoring three times in six appearances, and he is desperate to have a match-winning impact again because he knows how much it means to the fans.

"I know the history of this game and I know exactly what it means to everyone here, Cahill said. "Our kit man, the masseuse and all the young lads who help out all have the club crest tattooed on them.

"I know what it is like to live in the city. I was (Liverpool midfielder) John Arne Riise's next door neighbour. I've had the banter from Liverpool supporters and nice things said to me by Evertonians. But when you've scored three goals in derby games, you expect that. It's part of the banter.

"I know a lot of people who feel every single kick. You can't play for this club unless it is in the blood.

"You hear so many stories of what it means to be an Evertonian and I can tell you every player relishes this game and is honoured to play for this football club."