If there was ever a fixture that could make or break Brendan Rodger's maiden season at Anfield then it's the Merseyside derby. A fixture of great history and tradition pits two teams a hare widths apart geographically but, in terms of league position, the Reds are once again enviously gazing up at the Toffees. Regaining the Stanley Park supremacy is one of the top objectives on Rodgers' list and there were signs that his side were moving in the right direction with a throughly encouraging victory in the Europa League on Thursday. That followed a first Premier League home win for Rodgers last weekend, which will come as a huge relief to the Northern Irishman, as the players become accustomed to the way he wants them to play. There has also been a glimpse of his long-term strategy that has seen teenage stars Raheem Sterling and Suso become pivotal members of the starting XI. Whether this young Reds team can cope with the vociferous atmosphere of the Merseyside derby will be a test of their young character and set the tone for their campaign.

This week on FFC is Rodgers finally starting to deliver at Anfield and could he be lining up a shock swoop for Theo Walcott in the New Year?

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Best of FFC

Brendan Rodgers finally delivers at Anfield

To what extent are Everton favourites?

The real deal at Liverpool FC?

Will he prove the architect of his own downfall at Anfield?

A transfer to Liverpool FC would be a strange one

Signs that Liverpool FC are getting back to basics

Are these really the sort of players Liverpool FC should be looking at?

Does his presence unsettle the rest of the side?

Rodgers plotting January raid on Arsenal and Chelsea

Liverpool FC boss targeting Dutch ace in cut price deal

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Best of WEB

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Reds Going in the Right Direction - Live 4 Liverpool

Fortress Anfield? You're having a laugh! Spurs hero writes off LFC's CL chances… - Liverpool Kop

Will Rodgers’ Europa selection backfire on Sunday? - This is Anfield

'Get a grip!' - Angry LFC hero slams fan 'negativity' and KD's transfer mistakes… - Liverpool Kop

Winning By Numbers - The Tomkins Times

A Better Partnership Than Carra & Sami? - Live 4 Liverpool

Is a balance between pragmatism & idealism the key for Rodgers? - This is Anfield

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Quote of the Week

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"I think he has been a great surprise to everyone; not that he is doing so well at this level but I don't think anyone expected him to break through so early. I think we all knew he was going to be good enough to play for the first team but when they are young and small and that size sometimes you need to take a little bit extra care. They get used towards the end of the season to give them a taste but the manager has come in, seen what he has done in pre-season and said he is ready now. He hasn't let anyone down and he's been sensational so far." Steven Gerrard admits he has been impressed by Raheem Sterling's progress this season

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