Everton host Liverpool in the first Merseyside derby at the new ground on Sunday.
The Toffees have a chance to make history by beating Liverpool on their first visit to the Hill Dickinson Stadium – and a lot more than mere bragging rights are on the line, with the UEFA Champions League a realistic aim for David Moyes if Everton win this clash.
Ahead of the match, Alan Shearer has told the Metro that he is envisaging a draw in this Merseyside derby, a result he feels Everton fans won’t be pleased about if it happens.
What changes would you make from the Brentford game? 😬
Predicted XI Everton vs Liverpool
Credit: GRV Media
Alan Shearer sits “on the fence” as draw predicted for Merseyside derby
The Premier League’s record goalscorer said: “It’s a tough one. You know what I’m like when it comes to derby games. I’m going to sit on the fence and say it’s going to be a draw. I was going to say to keep both fans happy, but I’m not sure they will be.
“Everton are having a brilliant season whereas Liverpool are not, so I think it’ll be a draw. Liverpool playing in midweek should not affect them because it’s a derby game, and we know what derby games are like, and there’s always an added, extra atmosphere.
“The midweek game is no excuse at all for Liverpool because of the size of this game and what it means to the people.”
A draw probably would be quite frustrating for Everton – who Virgil van Dijk is wary of.
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Winning this Merseyside derby would put the Toffees just two points behind Liverpool heading into the final five games, and with fifth spot enough for UEFA Champions League qualification, it could be an incredibly exciting end to the season for Everton.
What would you say to the lads before they head out for kick-off on Sunday? 🤔
David Moyes, Manager of Everton, celebrates his team's first goal, scored by Beto (not pictured) during the Premier League match between Everton and Chelsea.
Credit: Getty Images/Carl Recine
A draw would not be the worst result. However, with a tricky end to the campaign, involving clashes against the likes of Manchester City, Crystal Palace, Sunderland and West Ham, Moyes could really do with taking three points against Liverpool, a direct rival for European football.
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