Liverpool vs Everton: The Merseyside Derby – Preview, Lineup & Quiz

By Analysteye

This Saturday, Anfield will once again host one of England’s fiercest rivalries—the Merseyside Derby, as Liverpool take on Everton in the Premier League. Coming off a dramatic 3-2 Champions League win over Atlético Madrid, the Reds would like nothing more than to build momentum, while Everton are hoping to pull off a statement result under David Moyes. Here’s what to expect, what Liverpool must watch out for, and how they might line up for this high-octane clash.

1. What Liverpool Bring Into This Match

• Momentum & Drama: Liverpool have won all their games so far, but often by narrow margins. A late-goal habit has kept them perfect, including the last-gasp winner vs Atlético. Efficiency in closing out games is a recurring talking point.
• Squad Fitness & Depth: According to Slot, Liverpool have a relatively full squad available. Curtis Jones is back in training, and while Alexander Isak is still building match fitness, he featured for approximately 60 minutes vs Atlético. His readiness remains under scrutiny.
• Vulnerabilities: Despite victories, defensive lapses have been a concern. Everton manager Moyes has noted Liverpool's tendency to concede and reliance on last-minute results. Everton will try to exploit these moments of instability. 

2. Everton’s Threats & How They’ll Play

• Tactical Discipline & Counter Third: Everton are known to be more organised under Moyes, especially in tight games. With some defensive injuries (e.g. Branthwaite out), they’ll likely sit, defend resolutely, and break quickly. 

• New Signings & Creative Spark: Players like Jack Grealish are providing attacking threat that Everton might use to stretch Liverpool on transitions and in wide areas. Everton’s attacking transitions will be dangerous. 

3. Predicted Liverpool Lineup (4-2-3-1) vs Everton

Here’s our predicted starting XI for Liverpool, based on recent selections, fitness reports, and tactical needs. Slot has several options in attack given Isak’s recent debut and other forwards pushing for starts. 

Fan Questions

Who do you think will start up front: Hugo Ekitike or Alexander Isak? Why?

Given Liverpool’s late-goal tendency, do you trust them to lead comfortably early, or will Everton force pressure?

Which Liverpool player must step up in defense to avoid conceding early goals?

Take our Merseyside Trivia Quiz

Final Word

Liverpool vs Everton isn’t just another fixture, it's a test of character, fitness, and squad strength. With Everton looking sharper this season, this derby is a chance for Liverpool to prove they can dominate more cleanly. If the starting XI holds to expectations, and if the defense cuts out the lapses, Anfield should be a fortress once again.

YNWA.