Biggest Expectations for the Everton derby

It’s yet another edition of the Merseyside Derby as Liverpool will be one of the first clubs in action as they welcome Everton to Anfield for an early Saturday kickoff. The Reds will be considered favorites but you never know in a Derby match. Let’s take a look at the biggest things to watch for.

1. Can Darwin Nunez bring his scoring form back from the National Team? – Nunez scored once again for Uruguay in their big World Cup qualifier win over Brazil. He has been playing well for Liverpool as a whole, but the missed chances are still piling up.

At some point, the conversion rate needs to improve and Everton does not offer a significant defensive challenge so I am expecting at least one goal from him.

2. Kostas Tsimikas stepping into Robbo’s role – Unfortunately, Andy Robertson did not have as much fun for his national team as he injured his shoulder pretty significantly.

He will be out for a good chunk of time so the “Greek Scouser” will be called upon to step up into a featured role.

He brings the same attacking qualities, if only a little less. He does not have the limitless stamina that Robbo has, but he can still do the job plenty well. Everton offers him a comfortable first chance to rise to the occasion.

3. Will Jurgen Klopp stick with Mac Allister in the No. 6 role or diversify things? – Macca has publicly said he is relishing the challenge of playing in a deeper role in the midfield. However, it is clearly not a natural spot for him and the attack is losing some of his ability to unlock a defense further up.

Wataru Endo was brought in to stabilize things but has not been given a proper opportunity to show what he can do. Ryan Gravenberch offers some more defensive qualities as well.

Alexis Mac Allister needs to be pushed up field at some point, and against Everton could be that spot.

4. Liverpool must handle the moment to the best of their ability – Having such an early start time coupled with it being against one of your biggest rivals would have any manager sweating.

The Reds are the more talented team but there are some factors that could allow Everton to make things interesting at the very worst.

Liverpool cannot afford to sleepwalk during the first half hour because they could find themselves in an unnecessary dogfight. Coming out on the front foot and bagging a goal would be ideal. Put the Toffees away early.