Liverpool v Everton live: Premier League team news and line-ups ahead of Merseyside derby

Liverpool manager Arne Slot kept his cards close to his chest on the possibility of Alexander Isak starting the Merseyside derby against Everton, saying Britain’s record signing is likely still feeling the effects of his long-awaited return to action.

The Sweden striker played an hour of Wednesday’s 3-2 victory over Atletico Madrid in the Champions League in his first significant action in months due to his dispute with Newcastle United and prolonged move to Liverpool.

“We just have to see how they all feel,” Slot said. “All I know is Alex probably felt his body more than ever before after the 60 minutes he played, so let’s see how he recovered today, then we will see about the lineup later today and you will see tomorrow.”

The Reds have had their composure tested against Everton in recent years, with their most recent late show, against Atletico Madrid, reinforcing Arne Slot’s momentum this term

Everton will be missing Jarrad Branthwaite with a hamstring injury. Vitaliy Mykolenko is also a doubt having missed their last outing, a goalless draw with Aston Villa.

Alexander Isak is again unlikely to play the full 90 minutes, after Arne Slot cautioned against pushing him too hard following his summer on strike for Newcastle. Curtis Jones is available for Liverpool, with Slot confirming he has a fully fit squad to select from.

Liverpool host Everton on Saturday 20 September, with kick-off at 12.30pm.

Viewers can watch the game live on TNT Sports 1 and TNT Sports Ultimate, as well as on the streaming platform discovery+.

Reigning champions Liverpool have made a 100 per cent winning start to their Premier League title defence, but face fierce opposition from resurgent rivals Everton in an intriguing Merseyside derby this weekend.

Mohamed Salah’s 95th-minute penalty spared Liverpool’s blushes against Burnley last weekend, while David Moyes’ side continued a strong start to the season with a goalless draw against Aston Villa.

Liverpool have won their last four meetings with the Toffees at home and will be desperate to avoid their first loss of the season coming against the old enemy.