It is time for one of the biggest local derbies in English football and probably in Europe too. Liverpool will travel across the city to take on Everton at Goodison Park for the 186th Merseyside derby. Many call it ‘the Friendly Derby’ but the name does not go well with the fixture that produced the most number of red cards in Premier League history.
Liverpool are unbeaten against their local rivals in their last 12 outings, however, as many as seven of those ended in stalemates. The last time these two sides met, Liverpool won emphatically at Anfield. Ramiro Funes Mori was sent off for a dismal challenge of Divock Origi who is the heartthrob of the Liverpool fans right now.
Everton finally got back to winning ways with a 2-1 win against Arsenal on Tuesday night while Liverpool thrashed Boro 3-0 last night. This will be Ronald Koeman’s first game in charge of the Merseyside Derby. Here is the predicted Liverpool lineup against Everton.
Defence
Simon Mignolet will keep his place under the bar ahead of Loris Karius after his solid display against Boro. Nathaniel Clyne will keep his place at right-back. Joel Matip is a minor doubt for the game and in his absence, Ragnar Klavan will keep his place in defence.
The Estonian international will start alongside Dejan Lovren at the heart of defence. James Milner will keep his place at left-flank.
Midfield
Skipper Jordan Henderson will keep his place at the base of the three-man midfield. The English international is enjoying his game as a number six this season and will be keen to deliver a solid performance against the local rivals.
Gini Wijnaldum should keep his place in midfield with Emre Can being doubtful with a minor knee injury. Adam Lallana was Liverpool’s hero against Boro with a brace and one assist. He was absolutely superb throughout the game and will be looking to impress against the club he grew up supporting.
Attack
Sadio Mane will up against his former boss Ronald Koeman and will be looking to keep up his impressive form on the right flank. Divock Origi has scored five goals in his last five games in a Liverpool shirt and will keep his place up front.
Roberto Firmino has looked a bit off-colour lately but he always shines in the big games. The flamboyant Brazilian will keep his place on the left flank.
