Everton v Liverpool: Predicted Reds line up for Merseyside derby

Jurgen Klopp’s Liverpool travel to Goodison Park on Saturday to face Everton in the Merseyside derby. 

The Reds have recovered from a slow start to the season by beating Bournemouth 9-0 and then defeating Newcastle United 2-1 with a dramatic late winner on Wednesday.

They now face an Everton side that are without a win this season, drawing three and losing two of their opening five games.

Here, we take a look at the team that Klopp could select for the trip to Goodison.

Goalkeeper

Alisson was beaten by Alexander Isak at Anfield on Wednesday, a strike that denied the Brazilian his second clean sheet of the season. The Reds ‘keeper will be looking for another shutout on Saturday though, as he faces a Toffees side that have only scored four league goals this term.

Defenders

Trent Alexander-Arnold will keep his place at right-back for the derby. The England international grew up in Liverpool and is no stranger to the Merseyside clash. Alexander-Arnold was criticised for his performance against Manchester United, but responded with a stunning goal against Bournemouth and will be looking to impress once again.

Joe Gomez could be in line for another start

Joe Gomez has likely done enough to keep his place at the hart of defence alongside Virgil van Dijk. Gomez has taken advantage of injuries to Ibrahima Konate and Joel Matip and has impressed in the season’s opening weeks. Van Dijk will likely wear the captain’s armband for the match.

On the left, Andy Robertson is expected to start but will be keen to put in a strong performances with his deputy, Kostas Tsimikas, looking increasingly impressive when given the chance. The Greek international set up two goals in a 20-minute cameo against The Cherries.

Midfielders

Klklop’s biggest issue is undoubtedly his midfield, despite the deadline day arrival of Arthur Melo on loan from Juventus. Jordan Henderson hobbled off during the win over Newcastle in midweek and joins Thiago in being sidelined.

Fabinho has returned to full fitness and will be deployed at the base of Liverpool’s midfield trio, providing cover for the back four behind him.

That could allow James Milner another start. The former England international wasn’t expected to be heavily involved for The Reds this term, but injuries to several midfielders have forced Klopp to use the veteran more often than not.

Elliott has impressed so far this season

Harvey Elliott has been arguably Liverpool’s most impressive performer so far this term and will be given another chance to shine against Everton.

Fabio Carvalho, who scored a 98th minute winner at Anfield on Wednesday, will likely be used off the bench once again.

Forwards

In attack, the return of Darwin Nunez will buoy Klopp’s side but he is unlikely to displace Roberto Firmino at present. The Brazilian scored twice and provided three assists against Bournemouth, and then levelled things up for his side against Newcastle, and would understandably feel hard done by if he is dropped for the derby.

Salah hasn’t scored in either of his last two matches

Mohamed Salah set up both goals on Wednesday evening, having failed to register a single goal or assist in the 9-0 drubbing of Bournemouth last weekend. The Egyptian is still some way short of his best form, but a fragile Everton side may present the perfect opportunity for him to get back on track.

On the other side of Firmino, Luis Diaz will likely continue. The Colombian has enjoyed a fine start to his Anfield career, and has three goals in five games so far this season.

Predicted XI: Alisson; Alexander-Arnold, Gomez, Van Dijk, Robertson; Elliott, Fabinho, Milner; Salah, Firmino, Diaz