Everton vs Liverpool Preview

The 244th Merseyside derby is set to be an intense clash, with Everton and Liverpool fighting at opposite ends of the Premier League table.

For Everton, it is a crucial game to secure safety from relegation, while Liverpool continue their pursuit of the title.

This match carries significant implications beyond city rivalries, making it a must-watch encounter.

Everton: Aiming to Secure Safety

Bouncing Back from Disastrous Defeat

Everton rebounded from their 6-0 thrashing by Chelsea with a solid 2-0 win against relegation rivals Nottingham Forest on Sunday.

This victory helped them extend their lead over the bottom three to five points. With this game in hand, the Toffees could make a significant step toward Premier League safety.

Overcoming the Points Deduction

Everton’s position would be much more comfortable had it not been for their eight-point deduction due to two separate PSR breaches.

Despite these setbacks, they can nearly secure their top-flight status with a win in this derby. However, their record against Liverpool has been poor, with just one win in the last 26 Premier League meetings (D13, L12).

Additionally, Everton have not beaten Liverpool at Goodison Park in 12 matches (D9, L3), marking their longest home winless streak against any opponent in their league history.

Liverpool: Continuing the Title Challenge

Bouncing Back from Setbacks

Liverpool, on the other hand, are looking to maintain momentum after overcoming setbacks. Their recent 3-1 win at Fulham kept them in the title race, despite their Europa League exit.

Jürgen Klopp’s decision to start key players like Mohamed Salah, Alexis Mac Allister, and Darwin Núñez on the bench in the Fulham game provided rest ahead of this crucial fixture.

Impressive Midweek Record

Liverpool’s strong historical record in the Merseyside derby should boost confidence, as should their remarkable form in midweek Premier League fixtures. Klopp’s team have won each of their last 12 Wednesday league matches by an impressive aggregate score of 33-5.

Key Players to Watch

Dwight McNeil: Everton’s Creative Force

Dwight McNeil’s long-range goal against Nottingham Forest on Sunday has taken him to eight goal contributions this season (G3, A5), the most for any Everton player. His creativity and goal-scoring threat will be crucial for Everton in this high-stakes derby.

Mohamed Salah: Liverpool’s Derby Specialist

Mohamed Salah has a history of performing well in the Merseyside derby, with five goals and one assist in his last five league meetings against Everton.

His presence on the pitch can be a significant factor in Liverpool’s pursuit of victory at Goodison Park.

This Merseyside derby between Everton and Liverpool carries major implications for both sides. Everton are fighting to secure Premier League safety, while Liverpool is chasing the EPL title.

With history and current form on the line, this match promises to be a thrilling and hard-fought contest that could have lasting effects on the Premier League standings.

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Everton v Liverpool, 2023/24 | Premier League