Liverpool will be looking to secure a vital victory in what could be the final Merseyside derby at Goodison Park on Saturday, as they face off against Everton in the Premier League. The Reds, who suffered a blow to their title aspirations with a 3-3 draw against Newcastle United, need to bounce back and extend their lead at the top of the table.
Arne Slot, in his first Merseyside derby as Liverpool manager, faces several challenges with key players unavailable due to injuries and suspensions. The absence of Alexis Mac Allister, who is suspended after picking up a fifth yellow card, further complicates his midfield options.
Liverpool Predicted Lineup (4-2-3-1 Formation):
Goalkeeper: Caoimhin Kelleher
Kelleher is expected to start in goal, with Alisson still recovering from injury. The young Irish keeper will look to put behind him an uncharacteristic performance against Newcastle and deliver a solid display in this crucial derby.
Right-back: Trent Alexander-Arnold
Alexander-Arnold will likely return to the starting lineup after being dropped to the bench against Newcastle. His presence in the second half on Wednesday, which saw him contribute two assists, highlights his importance. Slot will be keen to manage his workload, but Alexander-Arnold’s attacking threat will be key in this encounter.
Centre-back: Joe Gomez
After a mixed performance against Newcastle, Gomez will be hoping to redeem himself at Goodison Park. Despite being pulled off in the second half against the Magpies, he remains a strong contender for the centre-back spot next to Van Dijk.
Centre-back: Virgil van Dijk
Van Dijk will lead the defence in what is set to be another crucial challenge, with Dominic Calvert-Lewin likely to be his main threat. Although he wasn’t at his best against Newcastle, the Dutch defender is expected to play a central role in keeping Everton’s attack at bay.
Left-back: Andy Robertson
With Kostas Tsimikas sidelined through injury, Robertson will be expected to continue his run in the starting XI. The Scottish full-back has yet to hit top form this season but remains an integral part of Liverpool’s defensive and attacking setups.
Defensive Midfield: Ryan Gravenberch
Gravenberch has been steadily improving in his new role as a defensive midfielder. After a less-than-ideal performance against Newcastle, he will be eager to prove his worth and control the midfield battle against Everton’s combative engine room.
Defensive Midfield: Curtis Jones
With Mac Allister unavailable, Jones may be tasked with a deeper role in midfield. He has shown versatility this season, and his ability to drive forward from midfield will be important in Liverpool’s attempt to break down Everton’s defensive setup.
Right-wing: Mohamed Salah
Salah is expected to continue his remarkable form after scoring two goals and registering an assist in the midweek draw against Newcastle. His pace, vision, and ability to create chances will make him a constant threat to Everton’s defence.
Attacking Midfield: Dominik Szoboszlai
Szoboszlai, who impressed with a stunning goal against Southampton earlier this season, will likely operate in a free role behind the striker. He will be looking to provide creativity and link play between Liverpool’s midfield and attack, although consistency remains a work in progress.
Left-wing: Cody Gakpo
Gakpo has been in excellent form, with goals in big matches such as the one against Real Madrid and Manchester City. His versatility, particularly on the left wing, will be crucial in breaking down Everton’s defence, particularly against their aging right-backs, Ashley Young or Seamus Coleman.
Striker: Luis Díaz
Díaz, who has often been deployed as a central striker when partnered with Gakpo, will likely be the focal point of Liverpool’s attack. His mobility and finishing ability make him a dangerous option in the No.9 role, especially against an Everton defence that will be tested by Liverpool’s pace.
Conclusion:
Liverpool will be looking to end their Goodison Park visits on a high, but Everton will be no pushovers in this emotionally charged derby. Despite several injury concerns, Slot’s men have the firepower and quality to overcome their local rivals and continue their Premier League title challenge. With a strong starting XI, Liverpool will aim to put the setback against Newcastle behind them and maintain their lead at the top of the table.
