Liverpool are gearing up for a crucial Merseyside derby against Everton at Anfield on Wednesday, April 2, 2025, with both teams facing a mix of injuries and hopes for a strong performance. The Reds, currently leading the Premier League table with a 12-point cushion over Arsenal, are looking to bounce back after a disappointing exit from the Champions League and a defeat in the League Cup final.
Alisson Becker, Liverpool's first-choice goalkeeper, is a major concern for the match. After suffering a concussion during Brazil's recent international match against Colombia, he will undergo late fitness tests to determine his availability. "Caoimhin Kelleher could start in goal on Wednesday if Alisson is unfit," noted a club source. Meanwhile, midfielder Ryan Gravenberch is expected to return after being withdrawn from the Netherlands squad as a precaution. "Ryan is okay although we have to train one more time, but he is okay," said his coach Arne Slot earlier this week.
Unfortunately for Liverpool, they will be without Joe Gomez, who is sidelined until at least the end of April following surgery for a hamstring injury. Additionally, Trent Alexander-Arnold, who is set to join Real Madrid as a free agent this summer, will not feature due to an ankle injury. Jarell Quansah may continue at right-back if Conor Bradley is not fit to play, although Bradley has returned to training and could be an option off the bench.
On the other side, Everton, managed by David Moyes, are looking to capitalize on Liverpool's recent struggles. The Toffees are currently 15th in the Premier League but have shown resilience, going unbeaten in their last nine league matches, including a 2-2 draw against Liverpool earlier this season. Everton's squad is also dealing with injury issues, with key players Dominic Calvert-Lewin, Dwight McNeil, and Ilman Ndiaye close to returning but not fully fit for the derby. They will miss Vitalii Mykolenko, who is out with a thigh injury sustained on international duty.
Despite their injuries, Everton will be eager to secure a victory against their rivals and build on the momentum from their recent performances. "A win and four points from six against Liverpool would be huge for us," Moyes commented, highlighting the importance of the match for his team.
As for Liverpool, the stakes are high. After crashing out of the Champions League on penalties to Paris Saint-Germain and losing 2-1 in the League Cup final to Newcastle United, the Reds are determined to reclaim their form and secure their first win in weeks. The recent international break has given them time to regroup, and they are keen to send a statement against their local rivals.
The previous encounter at Goodison Park was a dramatic affair, ending in a 2-2 draw thanks to a last-minute equalizer from James Tarkowski. This time, Liverpool will be looking to assert their dominance at home. The Reds have a strong record against Everton, with 82 wins in their head-to-head history compared to Everton's 54 victories and 68 draws.
Kick-off for the Merseyside derby is set for 8 PM BST, and fans can watch the match live on Sky Sports Premier League. For those unable to attend, the game will also be available for streaming on NOW TV. BBC Radio 5 Live will provide live commentary for listeners.
As the match approaches, predictions are varied, with many expecting a tight contest. A common prediction sees Liverpool edging out Everton 2-1, but with the intensity of a derby match, anything can happen. The atmosphere at Anfield is sure to be electric, with both sets of fans eager to see their team claim bragging rights.
In conclusion, the Merseyside derby promises to be a thrilling encounter as Liverpool seeks to maintain their lead at the top of the Premier League while Everton aims to turn their fortunes around against their fiercest rivals. With key players on both sides facing fitness tests and a history of dramatic clashes, this match is not one to miss.
