Everton will travel to Anfield to face Liverpool in the Premier League on Saturday (21 October) after the international break.
The Toffees have a “wretched” record at Anfield, and they have badly underperformed in the Merseyside derby in the past few years. Speaking to BBC Sports, Chris Sutton says he can’t see Sean Dyche’s side getting a win away from home this week.
In the past two seasons, Everton lost at Anfield with a two-goal deficit, and Sutton predicts another 2-0 scoreline in favour of Liverpool.
The Toffees are 16th in the Premier League after a poor start to the season once again but Dyche will hope that his side can raise their level in the derby clash.
“Everton’s overall record against Liverpool is pretty wretched, with one win home or away since 2010, and I can’t see much changing this time,” said Sutton.
“I don’t think the Reds will run away with it but I’ve been very impressed by Dominik Szoboszlai and Alexis Mac Allister in their midfield, and they have got so many talented attackers. It just feels like they will be too strong for the Toffees.
“Liverpool have beaten Everton by two goals at Anfield in each of the past two seasons, so I am going to go with that same scoreline. I would have gone with a goal for Everton but my daughter is telling me 2-0 again, so I am going to listen to her.”
Can Everton frustrate Liverpool?
In terms of squad strength, the Toffees are no match to their rivals. Liverpool have assembled a strong squad that are aiming for the Premier League title, whereas the Toffees will once again fight to avoid relegation.
At the same time, they are heading into this game on the back of a 3-0 win against Bournemouth and the players should be in full confidence. Dominic Calvert-Lewin remains a big threat for Liverpool, but it will be a big task for the defence to stay resolute throughout the game.
With Andy Robertson likely to miss this fixture, Dyche must ask his attackers to construct their attack mainly from the left-hand side. It could be a fascinating battle, but at home, the Reds are expected to dominate and pick up all three points.