In a highly anticipated clash tonight, Everton will host title-chasing Liverpool in the Premier League, marking the final Merseyside derby under Jurgen Klopp’s stewardship. The Reds, despite facing slight odds in the title race, ensured their season would not falter with a hard-fought win over Fulham on Sunday. However, the unrelenting standards set by both Klopp and Manchester City over the years leave little room for error. Although Liverpool enters this local showdown as clear favorites, these derbies often defy expectations. Everton, seeking to strengthen their position in the relegation battle, gained a controversial victory over Nottingham Forest on Sunday and will be eager to put up a valiant fight.
The match will commence at 8 pm BST at Goodison Park in Liverpool and will be broadcast on Sky Sports Main Event, Sky Sports Premier League, and Sky Sports Ultra HDR. For those unable to attend, Sky Go subscribers can access a live stream of the game. Standard Sport will provide comprehensive coverage through its dedicated match blog.
Everton will likely be without injured striker Beto, who was stretchered off in the clash against Forest due to a head collision. Other absentees include Dele Alli, Nathan Patterson, and Lewis Dobbin, while Seamus Coleman’s return is uncertain. Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s presence is still in question, but the team remains hopeful.
Liverpool, on the other hand, has welcomed back several injured players, although Joel Matip, Ben Doak, and Thiago Alcantara remain sidelined. Stefan Bajcetic’s return to action is being carefully managed. A fresh hip injury has ruled out Diogo Jota for approximately two weeks.
In terms of team selection, Klopp made significant rotations against Fulham on Sunday, resting key players like Mohamed Salah, Darwin Nunez, Alexis Mac Allister, Ibrahima Konate, and Dominik Szoboszlai. It remains to be seen whether they will return to the starting lineup for this crucial derby clash.
Everton will undoubtedly aim to derail Liverpool’s title aspirations, but considering the Reds’ impressive record this season, it seems like an arduous task. Liverpool are heavily favored to emerge victorious, although Everton will be determined to make it a memorable farewell for Klopp in his final Merseyside derby.