Liverpool Gain Advantage Ahead of Merseyside Derby as Everton Face Injury Concerns
Liverpool’s build-up to one of the Premier League’s biggest clashes has been boosted by uncertainty surrounding several key Everton players. According to Liverpool World, official training photos from Everton’s Finch Farm show that three players were missing from recent sessions.
Defender Jarrad Branthwaite is still recovering from a hamstring injury, while Vitalii Mykolenko hasn’t been seen since returning from international duty with a groin issue. Youngster Adam Aznou, recently signed from Bayern Munich, is yet to debut in the Premier League and is unlikely to start. As a result, midfielder James Garner may continue to deputise at full-back.
This comes at a crucial point for Everton manager David Moyes, whose side is unbeaten in four league games. However, Moyes has never won at Anfield in 20 previous attempts across various clubs.
Meanwhile, Liverpool’s squad is nearly at full strength. Head coach Arne Slot revealed before the Atletico Madrid match that Curtis Jones is close to rejoining training, suggesting a fully fit squad for Saturday’s early kick-off.
Record signing Alexander Isak, who cost £125 million from Newcastle, played 58 minutes midweek and is expected to feature again as he builds match fitness. Slot has been encouraged by his progress.
Liverpool’s flawless league start has been powered by late goals and strong defending, highlighted by Virgil van Dijk’s decisive winner against Atletico. That resilience will be key once more as they aim to extend their derby dominance and continue their push to retain the title.
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