Everton arguably head into the Merseyside derby as favourites.
Liverpool have lost four of their last five games across all competitions, whereas the Toffees can boast three wins and a draw from the last five outings, including back-to-back victories at the Hill Dickinson Stadium.
Fans could also argue that David Moyes has some stronger options than Arne Slot, with Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall outdoing the £116m Florian Wirtz this season, for example.
There is also a debate to be had in the centre of defence, as Everton legend Derek Mountfield has now claimed that Jarrad Branthwaite is a better defender than Virgil van Dijk.
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
Derek Mountfield picks Jarrad Branthwaite over Virgil van Dijk in combined 5-a-side team
The man who made 148 appearances for Everton, winning the 1984 FA Cup, two Football League First Division titles, the 1985 UEFA Cup Winners’ Cup and the FA Charity Shield on two occasions believes the England international is better than the Dutchman.
When asked to choose between the pair on TikTok, Mountfield was quick to select Branthwaite – who Manchester United like – over Van Dijk.
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Of course, the 63-year-old could be accused of being biased on this occasion, but there is certainly an argument to be had.
The Netherlands international has made a number of mistakes this season, most recently giving away a penalty as Liverpool were thumped 4-0 by Manchester City in the FA Cup quarter-final.
Van Dijk also turns 35 in July and is nearing the end of his career at the highest level, whereas Branthwaite is just 23 years of age with plenty of room to get even better.
The Everton No.32 is also versatile, with Moyes fielding him at left-back on several occasions this season.
What do you think is Jarrad Branthwaite’s best position? 🤔
Moyes is convinced he's just as good at left-back… 😬
Jarrad Branthwaite of Everton during the pre-season friendly match between Everton and AS Roma. David Moyes, head coach of Everton, during the Premier League match between Newcastle United and Everton at St James' Park.
Credit: Getty Images/Jan Kruger/James Gill – Danehouse.
Liverpool fans will surely dispute the argument that Branthwaite is better than Van Dijk, but at this current moment in time, the pair are closer than many might think.
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