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Liverpool vs Everton Team News: Merseyside Derby Preview

The Merseyside derby rarely needs extra context, but this latest chapter arrives with plenty riding on it for both Liverpool and Everton. With European ambitions, injury concerns and squad rotation all in play, the latest Team News offers a revealing glimpse into how Sunday’s contest could unfold.

Liverpool Squad Update Ahead of Derby

Liverpool travel across Stanley Park with a growing list of absentees, something that may test the depth and adaptability of Arne Slot’s squad. Both Joe Gomez and Hugo Ekitike are ruled out, the latter facing a lengthy spell on the sidelines after suffering a ruptured Achilles tendon.

Slot confirmed the severity, stating Ekitike will be unavailable for a “long time”, leaving Liverpool light in attacking options. Injuries also continue to affect Stefan Bajcetic, Alisson Becker, Conor Bradley, Jayden Danns, Wataru Endo and Giovanni Leoni.

There is, however, a degree of cautious optimism surrounding Alexander Isak. The striker continues his return from a serious ankle injury and featured for 45 minutes in midweek. Slot acknowledged his progress but stopped short of declaring him ready for a full match.

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“Now we need him [Isak] but there are different options to play as a No.9 as well,” Slot said. “Federico Chiesa is also one of them so there are different options, but it’s definitely good to have Alex back now Hugo is injured.”

Elsewhere, Jayden Danns remains a longer term project in terms of match fitness. Slot added, “The good thing for him is that he’s been out for such a long time and he’s now getting back with the U21s, getting some playing time.”

Milestones could also be reached, with Dominik Szoboszlai and Alexis Mac Allister both closing in on 100 Premier League appearances for Liverpool.

Everton Team News and Fitness Boost

Over at Everton, the mood is notably more upbeat. David Moyes has a near full squad to choose from, with only Jack Grealish sidelined following surgery on a foot stress fracture.

There is also encouraging news regarding Charly Alcaraz, who could return after missing six matches. Moyes confirmed his progress, saying: “Charly Alcaraz is back and back training now. I think we’re as much close to [fully fit] as we can be.”

That level of availability could prove crucial as Everton push for European qualification. Currently sitting eighth in the table, they remain within touching distance of seventh place.

Derby Stakes and Recent Form

Form adds another layer of intrigue to this Merseyside derby. Everton come into the match after a 2-2 draw with Brentford, showing resilience and attacking intent. Liverpool, meanwhile, suffered a 0-2 defeat to Paris Saint-Germain in European competition, a result that may influence team selection and mentality.

Moyes highlighted the significance of the run in, stating: “I think that’s the biggest thing for me is that, with six games to go, we’ve got something to play for here.”

For Liverpool, it is about maintaining standards and navigating injuries. For Everton, it is about seizing opportunity and keeping a European dream alive.