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As the derby looms, line-up predictions seem straightforward—bar one critical position. The midweek clash against Newcastle provided a clear glimpse into who should step in and who may drop out for this crucial game. The freshness injected by substitutions in that game also gave us clues about the winning formula for the derby. Let’s break down the key areas of decision-making.
Injecting Fresh Legs: The Obvious Changes
There’s no debate about Trent Alexander-Arnold, Dominik Szoboszlai, and Luis Díaz returning to the starting XI. Against Newcastle, their introductions in the 67th minute dramatically shifted momentum. The trio’s energy and creativity will be invaluable in a high-pressure derby where intensity and precision are paramount.
Alexis Mac Allister’s suspension simplifies midfield selection. His absence opens the door for a reshuffled central trio. With Szoboszlai’s impact off the bench midweek and his consistent dynamism, he’s a guaranteed starter. Meanwhile, Ryan Gravenberch, who came off for Szoboszlai in the 67th minute, is also likely to be in the mix, particularly after his bright spells during the Newcastle game. Curtis Jones alongside them and that’s your three.
Photo: IMAGO
Darwin Núñez: A Tactical Shift?
Darwin Núñez struggled at St. James’ Park, and his substitution in the 71st minute underscored a below-par performance. For this game, a tactical adjustment seems prudent. Deploying Luis Díaz as a false nine—a strategy that paid dividends against Bayer Leverkusen in the Champions League—could be the way forward.
Díaz’s ability to drop deep and link play adds fluidity, something Núñez lacked against Newcastle. Cody Gakpo is another versatile attacking option, but his role might depend on how the manager envisions breaking down Everton’s defence. Whatever the decision, Núñez seems the likely casualty in a front-line overhaul.
Photo: IMAGO
Defence: The One Dilemma
The backline largely picks itself, but one spot remains contentious. The choice between Joe Gomez and Jarell Quansah is tricky. Gomez, who was swapped for Alexander-Arnold in the 67th minute, offers experience but had a nervy moment midweek, almost gifting Newcastle a goal.
Goalkeeper Caoimhín Kelleher’s quick reflexes spared Gomez embarrassment. Quansah, on the other hand, provides physicality—something Everton’s set-piece threats, led by James Tarkowski, could expose. His larger frame makes him a natural candidate to counter Everton’s aerial dominance. Whether the manager favours experience over physique is a pivotal decision that could define the game’s defensive tone.
Predicting the Core XI
Excluding injuries, the rest of the line-up writes itself. Barring injury, the great majority of the team are nailed-on starters. The midfield will revolve around Szoboszlai, Gravenberch, and Curtis Jones, while the attacking trio of Díaz, Salah, and Gakpo seems the likely choice. Ultimately, the manager faces just one big question.
Will it be Gomez or Quansah to shore up the defence? Everything else falls into place seamlessly. Derby games demand a fine balance of aggression, creativity, and discipline. Get this line-up right, and the team will have the edge.
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