Jurgen Klopp's Liverpool, currently in fourth place, is sitting comfortably 11 points ahead of Everton, who find themselves in 16th place in the early stages of the season. Liverpool's recent form hasn't been perfect, with just one point from their last six available.
Their previous game against Tottenham Hotspur ended in an excruciating and unjust loss, casting a shadow over their preparations for the trip to the Amex Stadium a couple of weeks ago. However, they managed to bounce back with a straightforward Europa League victory over Union SG.
During the October 8 match against Brighton & Hove Albion, Liverpool faced an early setback when Simon Adingra capitalized on a defensive mix-up between Virgil van Dijk and Alexis Mac Allister to break the deadlock.
But as always, Mohamed Salah stepped up, scoring from inside the penalty area to turn the game in Liverpool's favor. Unfortunately, Liverpool's set-piece vulnerabilities came to the forefront, and Lewis Dunk scored from a free kick taken by Solly March, denying Liverpool an immediate return to the top of the Premier League table and dropping them to fourth place.
Despite the recent hiccups, Liverpool remains a formidable force, boasting a superior goal difference compared to Tottenham Hotspur and Arsenal. They have a chance to claim the top spot if they win the Merseyside derby, and they've maintained a streak of scoring in each of their last 21 competitive matches.
Liverpool's home record at Anfield is still impeccable, with five wins from five home fixtures this season, scoring at least two goals in each of these matches. They have yet to be defeated in the Premier League at their home ground this year.
On the other hand, Everton's conversion rate in the Premier League this season is one of the worst in the division at 6.77%. However, they showed promise in their last outing, a 3-0 victory over Bournemouth, with goals from James Garner, Jack Harrison, and Abdoulaye Doucoure. This win came after a disappointing 2-1 loss to Luton Town.
Everton has been more potent recently, scoring in six of their last seven matches and netting at least two goals in their last four away games. However, their defense has been a concern as they've struggled to keep clean sheets.
The history between these two rivals is storied, with 293 Merseyside derbies already played. Everton pulled off a significant victory at Anfield in February 2021 with a 2-0 win behind closed doors. However, since fans returned to the stadium, Liverpool has won their last two home clashes against Everton by the same scoreline. This sets the stage for an exciting showdown that football fans won't want to miss.
INJURIES & SUSPENSION
Liverpool fans have been eagerly awaiting updates on Andy Robertson's injury. It's believed he dislocated his shoulder during Scotland's Euro 2024 qualifying defeat to Spain last week, but we're still waiting for the official diagnosis.In the meantime, Kostas Tsimikas is likely to step in for Robertson in the upcoming derby. Jurgen Klopp's midfield is facing challenges, with Thiago Alcantara sidelined due to a hip injury, Curtis Jones suspended, and Stefan Bajcetic dealing with a calf issue, although he might be fit enough for a spot on the bench.
Caoimhin Kelleher, the second-choice goalkeeper, is out with a knee injury. The attacking duo of Cody Gakpo and Ben Doak also have some injury concerns, and their conditions will be assessed in the coming hours. However, Diogo Jota is back after serving a one-game suspension.
Given that Darwin Nunez and Luis Diaz had long journeys back from South America, Diogo Jota is likely to be considered for a starting role. The 12.30pm kickoff time might not be ideal for the Reds' boss. If Gakpo doesn't recover quickly, Nunez could be the only option up front.
On the Everton side, not much has changed on the injury front during the international break. Seamus Coleman is still recovering from a knee injury, and Dele Alli has a groin issue. Andre Gomes, with a calf problem, is uncertain as of now.
Idrissa Gueye was set to start against Bournemouth two weeks ago, but a heel injury during warm-up led to James Garner being called in for a midfield role. Garner's excellent performance gave the manager, Sean Dyche, a positive selection dilemma.
Gueye was able to represent Senegal during the international break, but Dyche may see no reason to change his recent winning lineup, which would also have Dominic Calvert-Lewin leading the attack, beating Beto to the number nine position.
POSSIBLE LINE-UPS
Liverpool possible starting lineup:Alisson; Alexander-Arnold, Matip, Van Dijk, Tsimikas; Gravenberch, Mac Allister, Szoboszlai; Salah, Nunez, Jota
Everton possible starting lineup:
Pickford; Young, Tarkowski, Branthwaite, Mykolenko; Harrison, Onana, Garner, McNeil; Doucoure; Calvert-Lewin
EXPERT PREDICTION
Liverpool 2-1 Everton
Even if Everton manages to take an early lead at Anfield, Liverpool's reputation for making comebacks is likely to shine through. Klopp's offensive-minded players can help the home team respond in kind, potentially propelling them to the top of the league standings, if only for a few hours.
