NICOLAS Anelka is warming to the prospect of playing for local pride as well as precious Premiership points at Wigan on Saturday.

The characteristically cool Frenchman has had his appetite whetted by his team-mates, who have made no secret of the fact that they have a score to settle with Paul Jewell's Latics.

"Our record against Wigan isn't good from what the boys have told me," Anelka said after being made aware of recent results that will add extra spice to the JJB clash.

"It's a local derby and a big game for the fans.

"But the victory over Sheffield United will give us the confidence we need to go to the JJB Stadium and aim to record our first victory there."

In fact, Wanderers have failed to beat Wigan in four meetings - losing three and drawing the other - since Jewell made history by leading the Latics into the top flight for the first time. But spirits in the Reebok camp were raised by Saturday's 1-0 victory over Neil Warnock's Blades and, although they will be without Ivan Campo and Kevin Nolan, who are both suspended, they have the incentive of knowing their European prospects will be considerably enhanced if they avenge the home defeat they suffered in November when Lee McCulloch scored the only goal.

Anelka says it is too soon for anyone to get carried away, but knows Saturday's derby and Monday's home clash with Everton will go a long way to securing a top six finish.

"Two games in three days will be difficult for such a small squad and with Ivan and Kevin missing, this will be a big blow," he said.

"However we have quality players that can come in and do a good job for us. The manager has set us the challenge of winning all our remaining home games, which is something we probably need to do to maintain our place in the top six. But, taking a few points away from home will be a bonus and we have to do our best as Wigan on Saturday to do that."

With Reading and Aston Villa still to come to the Reebok and tough trips to Arsenal, Chelsea and West Ham in the offing, Anelka insists on keeping a cool head "There is a buzz around the place and the next two games are massive in our European ambitions," he added.

"European football is important to us all but I try not to think too far ahead as you can get carried away. The focus is on Wigan and then Everton.