As the International break draws to a close finally we can get back to Premier League football. There is no better way to start off the weekend?s action with a titanic clash between to old rivals which dates back decades. I am of course talking about the Merseyside Derby. This weekend?s clash will be the 221th meeting between the two sides. Liverpool edge this encounter with 88 wins to Everton?s 66. There have also been 66 draws between the two teams.
Liverpool have some injury concerns going into the game. Brendan Rodgers may have to turn to Jon Flanagan to play at Left Back for this weekend?s crucial match. Sturridge is also nursing a dead leg which he has had for 3-4 weeks now and may not be available for the match.
Key players to look out for: Everton have made some great signings during the summer arguably none better than getting Lukaku on loan from Chelsea for the season. I feel that himself and Baines will be key for Everton this weekend.
Liverpool have some injury concerns going into the match so my key players for Liverpool would have to be Suarez, Hendersen and of course Gerrard. You can never count him out on Derby day and with Suarez in such great form I think Everton?s back four are going to struggle against him. With Hendersen?s energy as well I think Liverpool just have the upper edge in this one.
Where I think this match will be won. Most people would normally say the midfield battle but for me I think it will be in defence. Will Liverpool cope with the huge threat of Lukaku? And can Everton keep out the inform Suarez? So for me whoever can be more resilient in defence will just edge this one.
People build this up as a friendly Derby because Scousers have a history of sticking together and coming together in times of need. For example the Hillsborough disaster but don?t be mistaken bragging rights and League positions are at stake this weekend and going to work on Monday morning won?t be pleasant if your side doesn?t come out on top. In recent times Everton and Liverpool haven?t been challenging for the league title but this doesn?t take away the fact that this is one of the most historic and most watched Derbies all around the world. There is sure to be pride and passion on show come Saturday Afternoon.
Some match facts:
Ian Rush has scored the most Derby goals with 25.
The highest score in the Merseyside Derby was 7-4 to Liverpool at Anfield in 1933.
Last season?s result at Goodison Park was a controversial 2-2 draw.
Everton have finished above Liverpool on the log for the last two seasons.
Between the two clubs they have won 27 league titles.
Prediction: Liverpool will come out on top 2-1.
Source: DSG
Source: DSG