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Liverpool vs Everton Preview: Opposition Team News

As the English football calendar rolls on, it brings us ever closer to another electrifying chapter in the saga of the Merseyside Derby. Scheduled for April 2 at Anfield, this encounter between Liverpool and Everton is more than just a game; it’s a fierce rivalry steeped in history and passion.

Title Dreams and Mid-Table Aspirations

Liverpool, guided by Arne Slot, sit atop the Premier League and view the derby as a golden opportunity to push closer to a historic 20th league title. In stark contrast, Everton, under the stewardship of David Moyes, are scripting their own tale of resurgence. From the brink of relegation to a comfortable mid-table position, Moyes’ men are eager to disrupt Liverpool’s title march, making this fixture a tantalising prospect for fans and neutrals alike.

Photo: IMAGO

A Flashback to February’s Drama

The last time these two sides met in February 2025, the drama unfolded in spectacular fashion. Everton’s James Tarkowski became an unlikely hero, volleying home a last-gasp equalizer in the 98th minute at Goodison Park. The match ended 2-2, but not without its share of controversy, including a pitch invasion and a brawl that led to red cards for several including Liverpool’s manager and his assistant. Such moments have cemented this derby’s reputation as one of the most unpredictable and thrilling encounters in English football.

Everton’s Injury Woes

As we approach the latest edition of this storied rivalry, Everton’s preparations have been hampered by significant injury setbacks. Defender Vitaliy Mykolenko is sidelined with a thigh muscle tear sustained on international duty, expected to miss the next 3-6 weeks. His absence leaves a gap on the left-back, with either Ashley Young or Nathan Patterson likely to step in.

The Toffees will also be without their leading striker, Dominic Calvert-Lewin, who continues his recovery from a severe hamstring tear. Meanwhile, Dwight McNeil’s return from knee surgery is still uncertain, and he remains a doubtful starter for the upcoming game.

Adding to Everton’s concerns are Iliman Ndiaye and Orel Mangala. Ndiaye is out with medial collateral ligament damage but is hopeful for a return later in April. Mangala, on the other hand, faces a long road to recovery following an ACL rupture, effectively ending his season prematurely.

Anfield Awaits a Fierce Battle

With such a backdrop, the stage is set for an intense showdown at Anfield. Liverpool are keen to consolidate their lead at the summit, while Everton, despite their injury struggles, have shown they are capable of standing toe-to-toe with the league’s best. As history has shown, in the Merseyside Derby, form often takes a backseat to passion and determination.

This derby is not just a test of tactics and skill but also of resilience and heart. It promises to be another memorable encounter in the rich tapestry of the Merseyside rivalry. As fans from around the globe tune in, one can only anticipate the drama, the intensity, and the sheer unpredictability that this match will bring. Prepare for a night of compelling football as these two historic clubs battle it out under the lights at Anfield.