Liverpool have looked sharp under Arne Slot, opening their title defence with four wins from four in the League

Liverpool Chasing Perfect Start

Liverpool have looked sharp under Arne Slot, opening their title defence with four wins from four in the Premier League. Their midweek Champions League victory over Atletico Madrid was dramatic, a 92nd-minute header from Virgil van Dijk sealing a 3-2 win in front of a raucous Anfield crowd.

British-record signing Alexander Isak made his debut, completing 58 minutes and forcing Jan Oblak into a fine stop just before the break. He is still working his way back to full fitness after missing much of pre-season, but his presence adds another layer of threat to an already formidable front line.

Slot will consider rotating his squad after fielding a full-strength side in Europe. Jeremie Frimpong returned from his hamstring injury to start midweek, though he may be rested to manage his workload. Ryan Gravenberch and Dominik Szoboszlai could also be candidates for reduced minutes after playing 90 minutes against Atletico. Curtis Jones remains sidelined with a knock picked up before the international break.

Everton Looking for Statement Result

Everton’s start has been defined by energy and invention. David Moyes’ side sit sixth after wins over Brighton and Wolves, a response to their opening day defeat to Leeds. Their defensive resilience was on display in the goalless draw with Aston Villa last weekend, which highlighted their growing confidence.

A major factor has been the loan signing of Jack Grealish from Manchester City. The forward has quickly rediscovered his best form, producing four assists in his first four appearances. Moyes must decide whether to start Beto, who has one goal in four games, or give new signing Thierno Barry a chance to lead the line. Tyler Dibling could also make his first start since joining from Southampton, having been limited to a Carabao Cup cameo so far.

Injury issues persist at the back with Jarrad Branthwaite and Vitalii Mykolenko still unavailable, meaning Moyes will likely stick with the defensive pairing that kept Villa quiet.

Tactical Battle at Anfield

This derby could be defined by tempo and transition. Liverpool remain potent but have shown vulnerability when pressed early. Everton will likely look to hit quickly on the break, using Grealish’s creativity to release runners into space behind the Reds’ high line.

Slot’s challenge is to maintain his side’s defensive structure while ensuring they do not run out of ideas in possession. The decision between starting Isak or Hugo Ekitike is crucial, as both offer very different profiles. Ekitike has started the season well but could be sacrificed to ease Isak back into rhythm.