Everton head into this weekend’s Merseyside derby with real belief.
David Moyes’ side currently reside in sixth place and have ambitions of qualifying for a European competition.
Everton were the better side against Aston Villa last time out, despite the game ending in a goalless draw, so they are coming off the back of a good performance.
They’ll certainly need to be at their best against Liverpool, and with that said, here’s what Paul Merson has predicted for the clash at Anfield.
Paul Merson predicts the score for Everton vs Liverpool
Writing in his Sportskeeda column, Merson discussed the quality Everton have and believes they can hurt Arne Slot’s side.
“I can’t remember the last time Everton played Liverpool and they had all these weapons! In recent years, Everton have been forced to go to Anfield with zero hopes. They just try to keep it tight at the back and hope for an opening that might be handed to them. But this time it’s different.
“For the first time in a really long while, Everton have serious quality in attack. Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, Iliman Ndiaye and Jack Grealish have shown what they can do in an Everton shirt. The Merseyside derby is always intense but I just think this one will be a lot better than what we’ve been used to in recent years. I believe the Everton fans will go to Anfield in the hope that they can definitely win this game and that will certainly add to the atmosphere there.
Merson added: “In the past you could never give Everton a chance at Anfield, but if they keep things tight at the back, I think they have the quality to hurt Liverpool. However, I still think the reigning Premier League champions will edge it.”
Merson predicted Liverpool to beat Everton 2-1.
David Moyes has big striker decision to make
Moyes has been rotating between Thierno Barry and Beto up front.
When asked why, he said: “Just the goals I might just chop and change for no particular reason.”
Despite Beto failing to net against Villa last weekend, he should actually retain his spot in the starting line-up.
That’s because his pace suits this game, with Liverpool often playing a very high line, so there will be plenty of space to run in behind.
Beto almost scored at Anfield earlier this year and looked a real handful, so that seems the most obvious selection choice.
Plus, Barry could be a really effective super sub when legs begin to tire.
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