Liverpool make the short trip across Stanley Park for the 212th Merseyside Derby this Sunday, looking to get their season back on track following Champions League elimination this week.
Rafa Benitez’s side recorded only their second win in 11 games in Hungary on Tuesday but it wasn’t enough to see them remain in Europe’s top competition. They currently sit seventh in the League and could be lower if results don’t go their way on Saturday.
Across the Park David Moyes’ side aren’t enjoying the best of seasons, sitting 14th and just three points off the relegation zone, having been defeated by Hull in midweek.
Team News
Glen Johnson is expected to start at right back, while Yossi Benayoun should be fit to start, Fernando Torres faces a late fitness test. Ryan Babel could return after missing the trip to Hungary, while Albert Riera may be back after recovering from a hamstring injury.
Everton are without captain Phil Neville, Tim Cahill faces a late fitness test.
Team Stats
Possible Starting XI: Howard, Hibbert, Yobo, Distin, Baines, Pienaar, Heitinga, Rodwell, Bilyaletdinov, Cahill, Saha
Doubtful: Osman (ankle), Pienaar (knee), Rodwell (groin), Saha (groin)
Injured: Anichebe, Arteta, Jagielka, Neville, Vaughan (all knee, Jan)
Suspended: None
Form guide: LLWDLD
Disciplinary Record: Y21 R1
Leading Scorer: Saha 8
Liverpool
Possible Starting XI: Reina, Johnson, Carragher, Agger, Aurelio, Mascherano, Lucas, Kuyt, Gerrard, Benayoun, Torres/Ngog
Doubtfu:l Babel (ankle), Benayoun (hamstring), Torres (hernia)
Injured: Kelly (ankle, 5 Dec), Riera (hamstring, 5 Dec)
Suspended: Degen (last of three)
Form guide: DDLWLL
Disciplinary Record: Y18 R3
Leading Scorer: Torres 10
Did you know?
Referee: Alan Wiley
Video: Pre-Match Press Conference, Rafa Benitez
Kick-off at Goodison Park on Sunday is 1.30pm, live on Sky Sports (UK).
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