Merseyside Derby: Everton – Liverpool combined XI
With one of the fiercest derbies in the land set to take place, Coral compile a combined XI between Everton and Liverpool, with the former 9/5 to beat the Reds at Goodison Park.
Formation: 4-2-1-3
Goalkeeper: Tim Howard
The Toffees have only conceded seven goals this season, largely in part to the exploits of influential goalkeeper Howard.
Right back: Nathaniel Clyne
One of the Reds’ reliable players so far this term, Clyne can be a mainstay in Liverpool’s side for seasons to come.
Centre back: John Stones
Having had his head turned by champions Chelsea this summer, Stones’ response has been nothing short of exceptional and he has been a key component in keeping opponents quiet and impressed against Jose Mourinho’s side.
Centre back: Phil Jagielka
As reliable as ever, the 33-year-old gives Everton a calmness at the back and he will be key to helping his side keep a clean sheet.
Left back: Brendan Galloway
It isn’t easy to replace someone of Leighton Baines’ quality, though the 19-year-old has been outstanding this term so far. With an assist against Chelsea earlier in the season, he just nicks this spot from Joe Gomez.
Central midfield: James Milner
One of the best signings over the summer for Liverpool, he has added much needed steel to the Reds’ midfield and can be vital to keeping the Toffees’ attack quiet.
Central midfield: Ross Barkley
He could well be Everton’s answer to Steven Gerrard, with Barkley really starting to come of age this term. With four assists and three goals, he can shine against Liverpool and is 4/1 to net anytime.
Attacking midfield: Philippe Coutinho
Arguably the Reds’ best creative force, the Brazilian is fundamental to unlocking defences and is also known for the spectacular, having struck a wonder goal against Stoke City in the opening match of the Premier League season.
Striker: Steven Naismith
The Scottish striker was pivotal in Everton’s 3-1 win over Chelsea, coming on inside the first 10 minutes and scoring a perfect hat-trick. He is 15/8 in the anytime market.
Striker: Daniel Sturridge
Still not 100 per cent, though he featured against Aston Villa last time out in the league, nabbing a deadly double.
Striker: Romelu Lukaku
Inspirational in his side’s 3-2 win over West Bromwich Albion as the Toffees came back from 2-0 down to sink the Baggies with Lukaku bagging a brace. The Belgian is 5/1 to break the deadlock.