He told the Wigan Observer: "I keep getting told all this nonsense that we're yet to get anything off the four biggest clubs in the Premier League. But as far as I'm converned that's all history - we're all about the future and believe we can win on Saturday."
The manager was also full of praise for the quality of Liverpool and the support offered from his own club's fans. He added: "Liverpool have got great quality all over the pitch, but we don't fear them - we relish the challenge. It's tremendous that the game will be a sell out. The fans have been right behind his and the JJB will be bouncing."
Players such as Paul Scharner and Antoine Sibierski could be given final chances to impress from the start with other waiting in the wings to take their places.
In particular, Anotinio Valencia is nearing full fitness and Emmerson Boyce is ready to return to the fold as is fellow defender Ryan Taylor.