Mark Lawrenson predicts Everton clash v Liverpool
Mark Lawrenson has predicted Liverpool to run out comfortable 2-0 winners against Everton at Goodison Park on Wednesday night.
The Toffees are rock-bottom in the Premier League form table, with four losses in their last five games.
Even bottom side Newcastle, who are yet to win a game this season, have a better record recently.
Rafa Benitez will be hoping for a change in fortunes against Liverpool, but Lawrenson does not see it happening.
He told BBC, “This was the game where Virgil van Dijk got injured last season so if it is possible to have any more spice than a normal derby, Wednesday night will be it.
“Benitez will be hoping his defensive block will hold out, but I don’t see it – especially when Everton have got so little to offer at the other end. They won’t be able to give themselves a breather during the game, when I think they will need one.
“Quite often going into these derby games, I think it doesn’t matter whether teams are at the top or bottom of the table because they feel so different but, this time, the sheer quality of Liverpool means I cannot see them creating chances without taking some of them.”
No chance?
Even the biggest of Everton optimists would struggle to find a way to back the Toffees on Wednesday.
The gulf in class between the two sides has possibly never been bigger in the last decade or so, and the injuries will only add to the Toffees’ woes.
Benitez will be looking to get one over his former employers, but at this moment, he is seeking answers himself.
It remains to be seen what the Spaniard has in mind against Liverpool and if there are any surprises he pulls during his squad selection.
Being compact and sitting deep is not the answer as the Reds will eventually find a way and Benitez will be aware of it.
A humiliation could be on the cards and if it’s too embarrassing it could lead to Benitez’s job being untenable at Goodison Park.
In other Everton news, a tactical change may be on cards v Liverpool with Rafa Benitez likely to hand youngster rare start
Be sure to follow Goodison News on Facebook and Twitter for 24/7 updates on Everton and more exclusive interviews with Kevin Campbell.