David Moyes says his best days as Everton manager are yet to come as his side head into Sunday's Merseyside derby in fifth place, just two points behind Liverpool.

The Scot, who completed six years in charge at Goodison Park earlier this month, also maintains that he is inspired in his role by the longevity of Sir Alex Ferguson at Manchester United.

Reflecting on memorable results during his tenure so far, Moyes insisted: "The best moments are still to come; that is how I always look at it. I really hope that is true at Everton. I'm looking, I suppose, for perfection.

"I am always told that I am very intense, but when I was a young player and growing up I used to look at Alex Ferguson at Aberdeen. Intensity comes with the job because I am determined to succeed. I work hard and I am very determined."

Moyes, who will have close-season talks on a new contract, added that continued success at Everton would mean playing in Europe every season. He said: "We really enjoyed being in Europe this term, and we were gutted when we went out. But that showed me that we want more of it, we need more."

A win against Liverpool would see Everton move into contention for a Champions League spot but Moyes was refusing to look too far ahead.

He said: "If we can't quite get the Champions League, we have to take that final place in the UEFA Cup."