Everton will seek to shatter Liverpool’s Premier League title dreams when the arch-rivals clash in the highly anticipated Merseyside derby at Goodison Park on Wednesday. The Toffees, rejuvenated by a 2-0 triumph over Nottingham Forest, are five points clear of the relegation zone and determined to maintain their newfound momentum.
Manager Sean Dyche is likely to field an unchanged back five, led by goalkeeper Jordan Pickford. Despite Ashley Young’s defensive struggles, he is expected to retain his spot at right-back. Idrissa Gana Gueye will assume holding midfield responsibilities, while Amadou Onana’s physical presence could earn him a recall alongside Abdoulaye Doucoure. Jack Harrison and Dwight McNeil remain Dyche’s preferred wing options, with Dominic Calvert-Lewin set to lead the line.
Liverpool, buoyed by a hard-fought 3-1 away victory against Fulham, will aim to reclaim top spot from Manchester City. Manager Jurgen Klopp is expected to recall talisman Mohamed Salah, who has found his form since returning from injury. Salah’s impressive record in the Merseyside derby – five goals and one assist in his last five league appearances against Everton – makes him a likely starter.
Luis Diaz will occupy the opposite flank, with Diogo Jota preferred to Darwin Nunez and Cody Gakpo as the central striker. Klopp will also recall four other players who were rested against Fulham, including Alexis Mac Allister, Dominik Szoboszlai, Curtis Jones, and Ibrahima Konate.
This highly anticipated clash is scheduled for Wednesday, April 24, with kick-off set for 8pm at Goodison Park. talkSPORT will provide live and exclusive coverage, with commentary from Sam Matterface and former England defender Stuart Pearce.
