Liverpool starting XI v Everton: confirmed team news and predicted line-up | OneFootball

Liverpool vs Everton: Team News and Selection Calls Ahead of Merseyside Derby

Few fixtures in English football capture the imagination quite like Liverpool vs Everton at Anfield. The Merseyside derby is more than just three points; it is a clash of identity, history and pride.

Isak Fitness Carefully Managed

Liverpool’s record £125 million signing, Alexander Isak, has already offered a glimpse of his quality in the midweek Champions League victory over Atletico Madrid. But the Swede is still short of full match sharpness, having missed pre-season and the early weeks of the Premier League campaign while at Newcastle.

Slot admitted after the 3-2 win in Europe that Isak would not complete 90 minutes against Everton: “Isak will not play 90 minutes against Everton,” he confirmed, leaving open the possibility of a starting role. Whether he is unleashed from the outset or held back remains one of the pivotal questions ahead of Saturday’s 12.30pm kick-off.

Hugo Ekitike, who offers pace and movement in behind, provides an alternative. His introduction would represent a more pragmatic approach in a game that rarely allows for patience.

Szoboszlai’s Tactical Puzzle

Another subplot centres on Dominik Szoboszlai. The Hungarian has impressed in an unfamiliar right-back role, even delivering a spectacular free-kick winner against Arsenal. Yet in midweek he reminded everyone of his natural influence in midfield.

Photo @LFC on X

With Alexis Mac Allister rested and available, Slot must decide whether to restore Szoboszlai to defence or trust Jeremie Frimpong, who has recently returned from injury. Each option carries risk, particularly against Everton’s physical style and set-piece threat.

Squad Options Returning

There is at least some relief for Slot in the return of Curtis Jones, who is available after missing the last two matches. Milos Kerkez, introduced from the bench against Atletico, is also pushing for a start, offering fresh energy on the left side.

Predicted Liverpool XI vs Everton

Alisson; Szoboszlai, Konaté, Van Dijk, Robertson; Mac Allister, Gravenberch; Salah, Wirtz, Gakpo; Ekitike

With Anfield as the backdrop, the noise and intensity will be relentless. For Liverpool, it is a chance to reinforce their dominance in the city. For Everton, it is the eternal challenge: to disrupt, to resist, and perhaps to claim the kind of victory that can reshape a season.