Everton Confirm Three Senior Players Out for Merseyside Derby at Anfield
The Merseyside derby is one of the most eagerly anticipated fixtures in the Premier League calendar, and this weekend’s clash between Liverpool and Everton is no exception. With both teams vying for a top-four finish, the stakes are high as the red and blue halves of the city get set to do battle in the early kick-off.
However, Everton manager Sean Dyche has confirmed that his team will be without three senior players for the game at Anfield. Dele Alli, Andre Gomes and Seamus Coleman are all set to miss out due to long-term fitness issues.
Coleman Set to Miss Out After Knee Injury
The Everton captain has been out of action since May with a serious knee injury, while Alli and Gomes are also yet to feature this season. Dyche told the media during his pre-match press conference: “Dele Alli and Andre [Gomes] are out. Seamus Coleman is back on the grass for the first time.”
The Blues boss did provide more positive news for Everton fans, revealing that Idrissa Gana Gueye is set to be available having been sidelined for the win at home to Bournemouth before the break.
Liverpool Also Battling Injury Issues
Liverpool are having to contend with injury problems of their own ahead of the fixture, with Andy Robertson expected to be out for an extended period after sustaining a dislocated shoulder during Scotland’s 2-0 defeat to Spain last week.
Cody Gakpo is likely to make his return having featured in training ahead of Everton‘s visit, while Darwin Nunez‘s availability is in doubt after suffering cramps during Uruguay’s win over Brazil. Jurgen Klopp is expected to provide his own set of fitness updates as he addresses the media at the AXA Training Centre at 1.30pm (BST) on Friday afternoon.
Conclusion
Saturday’s Merseyside derby promises to be an exciting affair, with both teams looking to gain an edge in the race for a top-four finish. However, both sides will have to contend with injury issues, with Everton set to be without three senior players and Liverpool’s Andy Robertson ruled out for an extended period.