Liverpool continues to face a series of big matches. On Saturday, the Reds welcome local rival Everton for their first Merseyside derby of the season, after facing Newcastle and Arsenal in the Premier League and Atletico Madrid in the Champions League.
I love Arne Slot’s defending champion. Despite not reaching peak shape yet, they netted another late winner to beat the middle of Atletico Madrid after winning the opening four top flight matches. Everton is the team at UP under guidance to return David Moyes, despite their own disastrous record at Anfield. Therefore, Reds boss Arne Slot does not underestimate the 247th meeting between these eternal rivals.
But how do Dutchman line up? He faces some pleasant choice dilemma, so that a perfectly fitted team can be at his disposal. We will soon discover his choice. But for now, here’s what our Liverpool echowriters believe slots should be:
Paul Ghost
Arne Slot may be ready to make more use of his team for his 247th Merseyside Derby.
Can we see further changes to the Blues’ visit as three changes have been made to the 3-2 victory over Atletico Madrid on Wednesday night?
For me, despite the temptation to bring Connor Bradley back to the right, I’m choosing to keep the same 5 as Wednesday night.
In the middle, there is a strong tendency to revive Alexis Mac Alistair, but it’s hard to stand by either Dominik Szoboszlai or Ryan Gravenberch. Szoboszlai was undoubtedly a Liverpool standout early in the season, but Gravenberch is, in my opinion, one of Europe’s best midfielders at the moment.
Up the pitch further, Florian Wiltz gets a green light. German International has improved in each game, with his performance against Atletico Madrid in the second half being particularly promising.
This could be a match that will really shine for him.
Hugo Ekitike replaced Alexander Isak, with prices being priced for a key contribution on Wednesday. The £125 million man should be 15 minutes or 20 minutes away from the bench.
My Team (4-2-3-1): Allison; Frimon, Conate, Van Dyke, Robertson. Szoboszlai, Gravenberch; Salah, Waatz, Gappo. Ekitike.
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Ian Doyle
The Merseyside Derby is a game that everyone worships – unless they are involved in it.
There were two major conflicts last season, and there’s no reason to believe that today’s game is different.
So, what should Liverpool manager Arne Slot do?
A change is required. However, this is not the goal of Alison Becker being his first choice.
However, Connor Bradley is able to intervene at the right back, Andy Robertson remains in his position at the left back, and Ibrahima Conate continues to be the partner of Captain Vilgill van Dik in the central defense.
In the middle, there is no need for change. Dominik Szoboszlai will continue to partner with Ryan Gravenberch on Double Pivot, with Florian Wirtz taking the 10th place role.
Previously, Hugo Ekitike is set up to centre stage as a main striker, pinned by Mohamed Salah on the right and by Cody Gakpo on the left.
My Team (4-2-3-1): Allison; Bradley, Conate, Van Dyke, Robertson. Szoboszlai, Gravenberch; Salah, Waatz, Gappo. Ekitike.
Theo Squire
Liverpool, who will face Manchester City on Sunday, will have a great opportunity to expand their lead at the top of the Premier League table when they host Everton at Anfield.
But when did the Merseyside Derby become easier?
The Reds have relied on late winners in the last five games, but hopefully there will be less drama against their local rivals.
I made one change to the back 5 for this match and took Connor Bradley to the right back. This is not a small measure for Jeremy Fripon, who was impressed by Atletico Madrid.
But it’s Derby Day, so include at least one academy alumni on your side – especially considering the influx of new team signatures.
The Alexis Mac Allister will have to settle for the bench spot again as Dominik Szoboszlai continues his number 8 role.
And Alexander Isaac resigns from Starting XI after an outstanding performance against Atletico. He must be pleased with the alternative look – and perhaps he will be the next late match winner – Hugo Ekichique stepping in to lead the offense.
My Team (4-2-3-1): Allison; Bradley, Conate, Van Dyke, Robertson. Szoboszlai, Gravenberch; Salah, Waatz, Gappo. Ekitike.
