Predicted Liverpool XI to face Everton in the Premier League

In one of the most awaited games after the international break, Liverpool go up against Everton in the Merseyside derby. Liverpool are coming off an inexplicable thrashing at the hands of Aston Villa in which they let in a staggering 7 goals.

Everton, on the other hand, are in a purple patch, winning all of their 4 games so far. They look in good touch as well, with a 4-2 hammering of Brighton in the last game. Jurgen Klopp might need to pull something out of the hat if he wants to topple Ancelotti in this derby.

Team News

Naby Keita, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Alisson are ruled out for the game with injuries. Kostas Tsimikas and Joel Matip remain doubtful for the game. Matip could end up making the starting 11 given he has trained in the last few days.

Klopp will no doubt be happy to have Mane and Thiago back after their COVID recovery. Other than that, not many changes can be expected from the Reds manager.

Probable Liverpool XI

Formation: 4-3-3

Adrian (GK)

Fans will be hoping for Alisson’s speedy recovery as Adrian showed again that he is not the best option to stand between the posts. Nonetheless, he will have to continue as the Brazilian might still be out for a while.

Trent Alexander-Arnold (RB)

Will need to improve defensively as his tendency to stay high up the pitch left Gomez exposed to Jack Grealish’s bag of tricks.

Joel Matip (CB)

Might have to be rushed into this game given how Gomez was specifically targeted in the last game.

Virgil Van Dijk (CB)

The ever-reliable Van Dijk has looked shaky and breachable in recent games. One can only hope he deals with an in-form Dominic Calvert-Lewin better than he handled Grealish and Watkins.

Andrew Robertson (LB)

Another player who might need to curb his attacking instincts for this game. Robertson will need to close down the gaps between him and Van Dijk.

Fabinho (CDM)

The big Brazilian will need to be on his toes against a free-flowing James Rodriguez. A lot will depend on how he deals with James’ creativity.

Thiago (CM)

A welcome return for the team as they have missed his ability to dictate games from the middle of the park.

Jordan Henderson (CM)

Could be brought back into the fold after watching the last game from the sidelines.

Mohamed Salah (RW)

Salah was the lone warrior with his two consolation goals against Aston Villa. He will be hoping to keep up his end with the goals.

Roberto Firmino (CF)

Firmino really needs to start getting in among the goals and assists. His recent exploits with the national team should give him some confidence.

Sadio Mane (LW)

The Senegal man will be another name to return to the starting 11 after his bout with COVID. Was severely missed in the last game.