Lucas targets Everton scalp

Birmingham manager Lee Clark will not be tempted to part company with teenage winger Nathan Redmond this summer, despite being linked to a move up to the Premier League.

Redmond, 19, has enjoyed an impressive end to this year's campaign as the Blues steered themselves well clear of relegation trouble with six wins in 11 games.

The youngster has just one year left on his contract and is attracting attention from a number of Premier League clubs, but Clark insists only a hugely substantial bid will prevent Redmond spending another season at St Andrew's.

Clark told the Birmingham Mail: "It would be a crazy decision to cash in on him.

"It would have to take big money, a fantastic offer, for us to part with him.

"Can we keep him? Yes, of course. Why not? He's a superb player. He's a local lad and he's enjoying his football."

Sheehan is one of 15 players out of contract this summer, but the 26-year-old left-back has held initial discussions with Magpies manager Chris Kiwomya about a new deal.

He told BBC Radio Nottingham: "I have had two years here, have played over 80 games and I am happy to be here.

"The fans have been very good. I'd like to be here and have never said I want to leave.

"A few of us have spoken to Chris and we know his plans for next season. I can't really say too much before things goes public but he has plans for next season.

"I think it will be quite exciting and it will nice to be a part of it."

The Reds currently sit five points and one position behind the sixth-placed Toffees heading into this weekend's showdown.

Brazil midfielder Lucas knows a win for Liverpool at the weekend will be vital if they are to finish ahead of their neighbours and secure a top-six finish.

"We still have a chance of catching Everton and that's our target," said Lucas. "We know we have to win if we want to finish a position higher than we are now.

"Merseyside derbies are always special to play in. The atmosphere will be amazing at Anfield and it's the kind of game you really look forward to playing in.

"We will go into the derby with a lot of confidence. Hopefully we can get another win and try to finish the season on a bit of a high.

"It's been a difficult season for us but we have to keep going. We still have three games remaining and the chance to get nine more points. The manner of our victory against Newcastle showed the character of everyone."

Lucas says the 6-0 rout in the north-east shows how good the spirit in the Liverpool camp is at the moment and added: "We showed on Saturday that we are a team.

"We approached the game in the right way and played with a lot of confidence and intensity. After going 4-0 up in the second half, we just controlled the game. I remember when we beat Newcastle 5-1 at St James' Park a few years ago and this was even better.

"But even though we won 6-0 there are still areas that we can improve upon. We need to keep working and keep believing."