Alonso believes the foreign contingent at Liverpool are well aware of the importance of the derby match at Everton, insisting: "We know how much it means to people."

As Liverpool embark on a week which could define their season, the Spaniard said: "The foreign lads always know it's a special game.

"You pick up on the atmosphere when you are out and about in town, of course. Everyone on both sides cannot wait for kick-off - it is a really big day for the city."

After the Barclays Premier League meeting at Goodison Park, Liverpool take on Besiktas in Istanbul on Wednesday before Arsenal visit Anfield the following Sunday.

But the main focus in the city over the next 24 hours will be the derby match.

Alonso said: "We know how much it means to people. They have family who might support the other team and they talk about it.

"The excitement is the same amongst the players. I am looking forward to it, though of course this week it is different because the whole squad is not here. We'll only have two days together as a squad."

Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez is faced with a couple of injury doubts, with Alonso rated only 50-50 to be fit after battling back from a broken metatarsal.

Fernando Torres is also fighting for fitness after suffering an adductor injury on international duty and defender Daniel Agger is still out.

Peter Crouch could lead the attack at Everton, with Benitez insisting he is not for sale, despite constant speculation.

The Liverpool manager said: "People have been talking about Crouch for two months, but he is our player and we don't want to sell him.

"He is a nice boy, a good professional, a good player. It is clear that this team now with four strikers creates more competition for places, but I don't have any problems because Crouch is a good player."