JAY Spearing has a derby in his sights – and a potential trip to Wembley.

The former Liverpool midfielder is happy to be thrown in tonight’s Checktrade Trophy clash with Everton’s Under-23s, reigniting the local rivalry he thrived upon in his Anfield days.

Interest has been limited at Wanderers in the revamped trophy and a small crowd is expected at the Macron for the first of three group games.

But with richer prizes down the line in the competition, including a prestige final at the national stadium, Spearing is urging his team-mates to show the game respect.

“Whether we agree with it or not we’re professionals and whoever is picked should be glad of the minutes,” he told The Bolton News. “If you’re in you should want to win every game possible.

“Fingers crossed we go far in the competition. The league is the main criteria, we want to get back to the Championship, but we will take this competition seriously.

“It’s an Everton game, so whether it’s their under-23s or the first team, I’ll treat it properly.

“There are some lads who need games and whether the gaffer brings them in is his choice.

“Whoever is out there will be working hard to keep this momentum going. We don’t want to lose any game and we’ve said we want to make the Macron a fortress, whatever competition that is in.”

Spearing isn’t too despondent about losing a 100 per cent record with a 1-1 draw at Charlton on Saturday.

“Results went for us so we’ve got to keep going. We’re still unbeaten in the league and we’ll take some positives from that. There’s a long season ahead.”