English football season is all set to approach the crucial festive period. The games are coming thick and fast, and they don’t get much bigger than the Merseyside derby. Although it is known as the friendly derby as there is not much segregation at the grounds, it is officially the dirtiest fixture in Premier League history with 21 red cards so far. The words of Jurgen Klopp summarize the importance of the Everton and Liverpool game, as he said, “Football is not the most important thing in the world, but on Monday night for 90 minutes it is”.

History of the derby

Everton FC were founded in 1878 with their home ground being Anfield. But in 1892, due to political differences Everton decided to vacate Anfield and move to Goodison Park. This gave birth to a new club called Liverpool FC, who made Anfield their home.

Ever since, this derby has been of immense importance to the supporters. The two clubs are situated less than a mile away, with only Stanley Park separating the two. Families are divided when this fixture approaches.

In the 1980s the derby was at peak when the two sides were at the peak of their powers. With both the teams competing for the title on a regular basis and the Beatles emerging, Liverpool was the place to be in Europe.

Inconsistent Everton

Everton bringing in Ronald Koeman in the summer looked like a great move from the board. But unfortunately for the fans, they are yet to recover from the gloomy period under Roberto Martinez. Despite having a decent start to the season, the lack of quality in their play means that they have started to drop points. Ashley Williams and Idrissa Gueye have been good signings but it’s the players on the other end of the park who have disappointed.

The inconsistency of Ross Barkley, Yanick Bolasie and Romelu Lukaku’s work rate is a big worry this season. Everton do have the players in their ranks. But Koeman has a tough task ahead of him. If he can get the best out of these players on the derby night, it could be a memorable derby for the Blues.

Liverpool title hopes

With Jurgen Klopp at the helm at Anfield, Liverpool fans have started to dream again. A great Europa League run last season and a fine start to the new season gives a glimpse of what can be expected from Klopp’s men over the coming years. The Reds are 9 points off the top of the table with this extra game in hand. Liverpool’s fine start to the season has been down to the collective contribution of everyone in the team. Klopp has managed to extract goals out of his midfielders which always helps.

Liverpool’s defense has been a concern this season. They have conceded soft goals this season. If Liverpool do have hopes of winning the title they would need to keep that back-line tight.

Team news

Everton captain Phil Jagielka will miss out due to suspension. The Blues will welcome back Gareth Barry who sat out of the midweek clash against Arsenal. Yanick Bolasie continues to remain on the side-lines after having a knee operation.

Liverpool will continue to miss Philippe Coutinho due to injury. Although there could be some good news regarding Daniel Sturridge. He has an outside chance of making a cameo appearance in the derby. Meanwhile, Klopp will have to take a call on whether Joel Matip, Emre Can and Divock Origi will start the derby.

Prediction and lineup

Although Liverpool look in a much better shape, Everton could use the atmosphere at Goodison Park to their advantage. Klopp would want to make sure that his team keeps up with Chelsea’s pace. Despite missing Coutinho, Liverpool have enough quality to tear any team apart on their day. Meanwhile Everton would love to disrupt Liverpool’s season by putting a dent to their title hopes. Everton will have some positive to take into the game having ended Arsenal’s unbeaten run in the premier league during the previous mid-week fixture.

It is always a difficult match to predict but Liverpool’s form does give them the edge over their rival.

Everton: Stekelenburg; Coleman, Funes Mori, Williams, Baines; Barry, Gueye; Lennon, Cleverley, Mirallas; Lukaku.

Liverpool: Mignolet; Clyne, Lovren, Klavan, Milner; Lallana, Henderson, Wijnaldum; Mane, Origi, Firmino.

Prediction: Everton 1-2 Liverpool

Image Courtesy: 90min

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