Lucas claims Liverpool will draw inspiration from their local lads ahead of the Merseyside derby.

Newcastle have been warned off Lucas Neill. West Ham said he was not for sale after Toon manager Joe Kinnear yesterday he inquired about the 30-year-old Australian defender.

Liverpool midfielder Lucas believes his side must beat Stoke to keep the pressure on their title rivals - but he does not expect it to be easy.Third-placed Manchester United host Chelsea, currently second, 24 hours after the Premier League leaders go to Stoke on Saturday evening.

Lucas has urged Liverpool to move six points clear at the top of the Premier League.

LATEST: LUCAS claims Liverpool fear no-one in their quest for the Premier League

Should Mark Hughes be looking to splash out on West Ham and Blackburn players when David Villa, David Silva. Lucas Podolski and Franck Ribery are all up for grabs?

Arsenal defender Kolo Toure is the latest player to appear on Manchester City’s radar, while Lucas Neill may be set for a return to Blackburn.

Liverpool midfielder Lucas Leiva has thanked Rafa Benitez for helping him to silence his Anfield boo-boys.

LIVERPOOL midfielder Lucas thanks Rafa Benitez for helping him beat the boo boys

THE last time Liverpool faced Bolton Wanderers, Lucas Leiva was given just a six minute run out towards the end of a convincing 2-0 win for the Reds.