The Merseyside Derby is one of the fiercest fixtures in British football. It can also often be one of the dullest fixtures in the Premier League calendar. This is often down to, in recent years, The Ev playing not to lose – even though they often do. However, times are a-changing over at Goodison Park – they have Carlo Fantastico and a blank cheque book. Liverpool can capitalise on the newfound confidence at Everton in the Derby this season.
Liverpool can capitalise on the newfound confidence at Everton in the Derby this season. (Photo by Nathan Stirk/Getty Images)
Carlo Fantastico
Last season Everton somehow appointed Carlo Ancelotti as their new boss. The Italian managerial legend came into Goodison Park with the club facing a real threat of relegation following a dreadful start to the season.
Since arriving, Ancelotti has managed to steady the ship, steering the Toffees to a 12th placed finish.
Of course, Carlo Fantastico couldn’t beat the kids you know. The Everton boss fell to defeat at Anfield when the Reds fielded a youth side for an FA Cup tie with their rivals, Curtis Jones netting an unforgettable winner.
Mersey Billionaires
The Ev have been on one this summer, acting decisively in the transfer market in a bid to become players in the Premier League by the time they move to their new stadium at Bramley-Moore Dock – whenever in the distant future that is.
Our noisy neighbours are thought to be finalising the signings of James Rodriguez and Abdoulaye Doucoure having already brought in Allan from Napoli.
They are poised to challenge for a top six spot with their reputable gaffer and shiny new signings – a confidence Liverpool can capitalise on.
No more parking the bus
Given that Everton’s spending this summer is a clear sign of ambition, surely they can’t park the bus again in the Derby.
Surely, Ancelotti will want to come out and attack the Reds instead – what is the point in such aggressive movement in the transfer market if you don’t want to beat your dearest rivals?
Coming out to attack would lead to one heck of a game of football, one that the Reds would find easier to win than when facing a low block.
When sides come out to attack Jürgen Klopp’s Liverpool they leave gaps to be exploited by an explosive counter attack, fingers crossed we’ll see this counter attack when Everton get brave this season.