The Merseyside Derby is one of the biggest games each year in the Premier League. Two teams within geographical distance of one another face off against one another in the EPL to see who can be crowned the winners of this infamous battle that brings out fans from all over the country. However, Jurgen Klopp could be riling feathers before the game even starts with surprise changes off the bench.
Will Klopp change his starting lineup for Merseyside? After a few disappointing results, we wouldn’t be surprised.
Jurgen Klopp Could Change Lineup Ahead of Merseyside Everton Clash
— Liverpool FC (@LFC) April 24, 2024
We know that Jurgen loves to rotate his players throughout the season so they stay fresh and ready to play. He gives youngsters a chance in key games, brings in players who haven’t gotten many minutes all season and rests his high-performing players.
For the upcoming Everton match, he might stick with his usual routine and go with a rotation in the starting lineup. Although Liverpool FC ground out a win against Fulham during their away match on Sunday, you can tell the longevity of the season and tired legs are hampering Liverpool’s usual attacking-minded nature and relentlessness in the final third.
Jurgen notes that they have played three games in 10 days before the Merseyside match-up, which is too much for even professional athletes to continue playing at their best.
‘Because the next one is around the corner immediately away at West Ham, we had to do it (rotation). We will see what we can do now for this game…this afternoon is the only real session we have and then we will make decisions…it’s an intense week for both teams so we will see.’
Klopp notes that it is a tough week for both teams, but it is arguably more stressful for Liverpool. Liverpool FC had to travel to Italy earlier in the week for European competition football, whereas Everton could stay at home in England and only worry about the Premier League and the Merseyside fixture.
Other teams, like Arsenal and Manchester City, also have to stress about alternate competitions and keeping their players fresh throughout Champions League, EPL, and Europa League.
Also Read: Manchester City’s Resurgence Against Liverpool: An Elusive Rivalry Rekindled
Predicted Lineup Liverpool vs. Everton
There are a few niggles and injuries that can affect who Jurgen has to choose from for the Everton Merseyside derby this week. Diogo Jota is injured and will miss at least two weeks of training and games with a muscular hip injury. The winger is sensational when he is fit, but he has struggled with injuries throughout his time in England.
Other changes that we could see include Dominik Szoboszlai and Alexis McAllister dropping to the bench. Klopp rested the two players against Fulham on Sunday, no doubt due to thousands of minutes so far this season in the Premier League.
Looking forward to the Everton game, we think Klopp will start Alisson in goal over Kelleher. The back line will most likely be Alexander-Arnold, who is fine form after a free kick goal, Konate, van Dijk, and Robertson, who has made his long-awaited return from injury to take back his left-back spot from Tsimikas.
As for the midfield, we believe Mac Allister or Elliott will start, along with Jones and Endo. Strikers are most likely going to be Nunez, Diaz, and Salah – an infamous trio up top that will no doubt score in the Merseyside derby.
About the Author
Emma is an athlete and sports fan who currently plays professional soccer. Growing up, she reached a high level in track and field, distance running, and soccer on both club and university teams.
