After a long break without Premier League football, what a way to return with the Merseyside Derby.
Both Everton and Liverpool will want the bragging rights after a manic first episode this season.
Goodison Park saw a thriller, and now Anfield expects the same as the Toffees start an extremely tough run-in.
David Moyes will be hoping he can stretch Everton’s unbeaten run to ten games, but Arne Slot might already know Everton’s game plan.
It’ll be mind games up until the game kicks off, but Chris Sutton suggests something will definitely happen.
Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images
Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images
Chris Sutton makes ‘explosive’ prediction for Liverpool vs Everton
Everton can take one step closer to safety even with a point against Liverpool, but Moyes will be hoping to replicate Carlo Ancelotti’s Anfield masterclass in 2021.
It will be a hard feat to match, especially with the Reds likely to win the Premier League this season, but the Scotsman might suggest it’s the best time to play Slot’s side.
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The Carabao Cup final defeat can be perceived in two ways as it could fire up the squad, which could send warning signs to the Everton camp.
Well, speaking to BBC Sport, Sutton can see one thing happening that will emulate that of the first meeting this season.
“They (Liverpool) are going to put Everton under all sorts of pressure, but the Toffees will be well-organised defensively and have an eye on a counter-attack too,” Sutton said.
“Everton boss Moyes has transformed a team that was lacking belief, and he would love nothing more than to go to Anfield and get something.
“I am expecting a typical derby, in that I would not be surprised if this is another emotional game as well as an explosive one, with maybe a couple of players will lose their heads.
“There will be plenty of drama along the way, but I am pretty sure Liverpool will be back to their best form and end up taking the three points. 2-0 Liverpool.”
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Everton have to ensure they make one thing happen vs Liverpool
As mentioned, Liverpool will no doubt be deflated with not only the cup final defeat but also their exit from the Champions League.
Everton will want to add insult to injury by frustrating the red side of Merseyside, and that is seemingly what Moyes will plan to do.
His main aim, however, should be to keep Mohamed Salah as quiet as possible.
A good example of this was the cup final, as Liverpool looked hopeless up front when the Premier League top goalscorer couldn’t get involved in the game.
This might mean Moyes gives thorough instructions to his full-backs, but it won’t be an easy task in the slightest.
Paul Merson agreed with Sutton’s prediction, but don’t expect a plain sailing night for the home side.