The Merseyside derby is set to return with Everton hosting Liverpool at Goodison Park. This will be a historic fixture as the last league derby to take place at Goodison before Everton moves to their new home at Bramley-Moore Dock next season.
With emotions running high, both teams will look to make their mark in what promises to be a great Saturday afternoon game.
Everton Recent Form
Everton ended a five-game winless streak with an emphatic 4-0 victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers in midweek. This crucial win saw them move five points clear of the relegation zone, offering a much-needed morale boost ahead of this derby.
However, consistency remains elusive, as Everton has struggled against top-tier teams again this season.
Injury and Team News
Armando Broja made a notable impact during his debut midweek, providing attacking depth alongside Dominic Calvert-Lewin. Midfielder James Garner and Tim Iroegbunam are doubts, while Youssef Chermiti’s return is still a few weeks away.
Manager Sean Dyche will hope for resilience as they face a challenging run of fixtures following the derby.
Last Everton Lineup
Here is how Everton lined up in their last match:
Liverpool Recent Form
Liverpool experienced a setback midweek, drawing 3-3 with Newcastle United after a late error cost them two points.
Despite some defensive frailties on the road, they maintain the best defensive record in the league and have been in excellent form overall under Arne Slot, winning four of their last six league games.
Injury and Team News
Liverpool will miss Alexis Mac Allister through suspension, while Ibrahima Konate and Conor Bradley remain sidelined.
Trent Alexander-Arnold is expected to return to bolster the defence. Goalkeeper Alisson may make a comeback sooner rather than after Caoimhin Kelleher’s blunder midweek, which would stability to the backline.
Last Liverpool Lineup
Here is how Liverpool lined up in their last match:
Everton vs Liverpool - Who is the referee and VAR?
Referee: Michael Oliver.
Assistants: Stuart Burt, James Mainwaring.
Fourth official: Tony Harrington.
VAR: Chris Kavanagh.
Assistant VAR: Eddie Smart.
Everton Player to Watch
Dominic Calvert-Lewin
The striker will be key to Everton’s attacking efforts. After regaining his starting position, he will aim to make an impact in a fixture of this magnitude.
Liverpool Player to Watch
Mohamed Salah
Liverpool’s talisman now leads the Premier League scoring charts. His ability to create and finish opportunities makes him the biggest threat to Everton’s defence.
Prediction
Despite Everton's recent win, the Reds enter this derby as strong favourites given their superior form and attacking firepower.
A resilient performance from the Toffees might not be enough to prevent Liverpool from securing a 2-0 victory.
Betting Tips
Tip 1
Liverpool to win – Liverpool’s dominant record in derbies and recent form make them clear favourites.
Tip 2
Mohamed Salah to score – The forward’s stellar record in big matches points to a goal-scoring opportunity.
Tip 3
Under 3.5 goals – Despite Liverpool’s attacking prowess, Everton’s defensive setup under Sean Dyche may keep the scoreline lower.
