With Merseyside bragging rights up for grabs on Monday night, Liverpool will welcome Everton to Anfield for what should be a fiery affair.
Liverpool
Starting with the hosts, last seen putting in another woeful display, Liverpool find themselves in the midst of a real Premier League nightmare. Eventually getting hit with a stunning 3-0 defeat away at relegation-scrappers Wolves, Jurgen Klopp finds a huge amount of pressure on his shoulders at Anfield.
Knowing that they are in need of a minor miracle if they’re to claim a much-needed top-four finish this year, the ex-Borussia Dortmund boss is seeking an essential boost on Monday night. However, despite being tipped as a standout pick here, Liverpool have remarkably won just a trio of their 10 post-World Cup appearances. Likewise, crashing out of the FA Cup last month following a last-gasp 2-1 loss at the hands of Brighton, Klopp’s men have continued to gain a reputation for their glaring issues at the back.
Although the Reds might hold a stellar record in the Merseyside derby, Liverpool will know that they can not afford any more public slip-ups.
Still dealing with a real injury headache at Anfield, Liverpool will once again be without the likes of Virgil van Dijk, Ibrahima Konate, Luis Diaz Roberto Firmino and Arthur Melo.
However, in what could be a boost for Klopp on Monday night, Diogo Jota could return from a long-term injury issue here. Fabinho should also feature after overcoming an illness.
Everton
As for the visitors, managing to open Sean Dyche’s tenure in charge with a stunning display on home soil last weekend, Everton will be desperate to spring another heavyweight upset here. Eventually handing Arsenal just their second Premier League defeat of the season as they claimed a gritty 1-0 win at Goodison Park, the former Burnley boss has handed his new squad a platform to build on.
However, while the Blues might have breathed life back into their charge for survival, Dyche’s side are still at the heart of another relegation scrap. Recording just a single domestic win since back on October 22nd, Monday’s guests open this weekend’s fixtures battling it out in the bottom-three.
Knowing that they face a huge challenge when they travel through Stanley Park, it should be noted that Everton have shown some extended issues on the road. In fact, continuing on from last season, the Toffees have won just one of their previous 12 Premier League matchups away from Goodison Park.
In what could be a crucial blow to Everton on Monday night, Dyche is sweating over the fitness of attacking talisman Dominic Calvert-Lewin. Neal Maupay could come in and replace the England international.
Everton have already confirmed that the trio of James Garner, Andros Townsend and Nathan Patterson will all miss Monday’s trip to Anfield.
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