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Historic Goodison Park Hosts Its Final Merseyside Derby
Liverpool face a significant challenge in their Premier League title charge as they prepare for the final Merseyside Derby at Goodison Park on Wednesday night. The Reds have managed tricky away fixtures at Nottingham Forest, Brentford, and Bournemouth, but Everton will be determined to make this an even tougher battle.
Originally scheduled for December, the clash was postponed due to Storm Darragh, setting up an even more intense midweek showdown. Following a disappointing FA Cup exit to Plymouth, manager Arne Slot is expected to field his strongest XI for this historic fixture.
Liverpool’s Predicted Lineup vs Everton (4-2-3-1)
Goalkeeper & Defense
🔹 GK: Alisson – The Brazilian shot-stopper has kept consecutive clean sheets and was instrumental in Liverpool’s 2-0 win at Bournemouth.
🔹 RB: Conor Bradley – While Trent Alexander-Arnold is back in contention, Slot might opt for Bradley’s defensive stability, especially after his impressive showing against Tottenham.
🔹 CB: Ibrahima Konaté – The Frenchman struggled in this fixture last season but is rediscovering his best form after early-season injury setbacks.
🔹 CB: Virgil van Dijk – The captain doesn’t have fond memories of Goodison Park, particularly after suffering a serious ACL injury there in 2021. However, he remains Liverpool’s defensive leader.
🔹 LB: Andy Robertson – The Scotsman has endured a mixed season but remains first-choice at left-back, with Kostas Tsimikas playing 90 minutes at the weekend.
Midfield
🔹 CM: Ryan Gravenberch – Emerging as a tactical wildcard under Slot, Gravenberch could play a key role in neutralizing Everton’s direct attacking approach.
🔹 CM: Alexis Mac Allister – The Argentine midfielder has had a more balanced workload this season and should be fresh for the derby after limited cup action.
Attack
🔹 RW: Mohamed Salah – Salah has scored seven goals in 11 games against Everton, but he’s looking to break a two-game drought at Goodison.
🔹 AM: Dominik Szoboszlai – The Hungarian international is rediscovering his early-season form, adding creativity and energy in the final third.
🔹 LW: Cody Gakpo – In Salah’s absence earlier this season, Gakpo stepped up as a key attacking force. He’s enjoying his best Premier League campaign to date.
🔹 ST: Darwin Núñez – With his pace, movement, and chaotic presence in the box, Núñez is likely to be preferred up front against Everton’s physical defenders.
What to Expect from the Merseyside Derby
With Goodison Park hosting its final ever Merseyside Derby, expect an intense and emotional clash. Everton will be desperate to dent Liverpool’s title hopes, while the Reds will aim to continue their dominance in the Premier League.
🔴 Can Liverpool secure another crucial win in their title chase? Drop your score predictions below!
