Liverpool is set to face Everton in the 245th Merseyside derby, an emotional encounter as it will be the final league derby at Goodison Park before Everton's move to Bramley-Moore Dock next season. Following their 3-3 draw against Newcastle United midweek, Liverpool will be determined to bounce back with a strong performance against their local rivals.
Team News
Liverpool manager Arne Slot faces a few selection challenges ahead of the derby. Midfielder Alexis Mac Allister is unavailable due to suspension, having picked up a yellow card at St. James' Park. Defensive duo Ibrahima Konaté and Conor Bradley remain sidelined, leaving the defense somewhat stretched. Joe Gomez endured a tough outing in midweek, and with Trent Alexander-Arnold expected to return, young Jarrell Quansah could partner Virgil van Dijk in the center of defense.
There's a possibility of a goalkeeping change after Caoimhin Kelleher's critical error against Newcastle. Although manager Slot has emphasized caution over Alisson Becker's recovery, the Brazilian could return to provide stability at the back.
In the attacking department, both Diogo Jota and Federico Chiesa are unlikely to feature, further limiting Liverpool's options in a high-intensity encounter. However, the prolific Mohamed Salah remains a focal point, having overtaken Erling Haaland in the Premier League scoring charts and achieving a milestone with 37 games involving both a goal and an assist. Salah's form will be crucial as the Reds aim to maintain pressure on their title rivals.
Possible Starting Line-Up
Goalkeeper: Alisson Becker's return might be accelerated, given Kelleher's shaky performance, although the latter remains an option if caution prevails.
Defense: Alexander-Arnold is set to reclaim his spot at right-back, with Quansah partnering Van Dijk centrally, and Andrew Robertson at left-back. This setup balances youth with experience, critical for handling Everton's attacking threats.
Midfield: Slot could field Ryan Gravenberch, Curtis Jones, and Dominik Szoboszlai in the absence of Mac Allister. The trio offers a mix of creativity and defensive discipline, vital against Everton's aggressive midfield.
Attack: Salah, Darwin Núñez, and Luis Díaz are expected to form the attacking trident. Salah's goal-scoring prowess, combined with Núñez's movement and Díaz's flair, presents a formidable challenge for Everton's defense.
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