Everton v Liverpool: Alan Myers issues Carlos Alcaraz update
Everton will take on Liverpool in the Merseyside derby on Wednesday, 12 February, at Goodison Park.
The Toffees lost 2-0 to Bournemouth in the FA Cup so do not go into the game against their arch rivals with their heads held high.
However, there were few signs of encouragement for David Moyes‘ side and Carlos Alcaraz’s performance was certainly something that would’ve pleased the fans.
Carlos Alcaraz has to start against Liverpool
In his first derby post his return to the club, Moyes will have some decisions to make and one of them would be whether or not to start Alcaraz.
Sky Sports news editor Alan Myers believes that the Argentine midfielder should be in the starting eleven against the Reds on Wednesday.
Via X, he wrote: “Poor 1st half, better second, Alcaraz to start for me on Wednesday.”
Starting the 22-year-old against Liverpool could give the Toffees some kind of an edge.
His performance against Bournemouth, where he showed glimpses of quality even in a losing effort, demonstrated his capability to influence games positively.
Alcaraz’s dribbling, vision and passing could disrupt Liverpool’s rhythm, especially in midfield where they’ve occasionally shown vulnerability against agile and technically gifted players.
The Argentine’s energy and work rate could also help in pressing Liverpool’s defence, potentially forcing errors from a backline that has occasionally been caught out this season.
Moreover, his inclusion could lift the spirits at Goodison Park, giving fans a beacon of hope and potentially galvanising the team.
Carlos Alcaraz was signed to replace Orel Mangala
Alcaraz in January was strategically motivated by their need for midfield reinforcement, particularly to inject creativity and dynamism into their squad after Orel Mangala’s season-ending injury.
The Argentine was brought in to address the club’s lack of consistent goal threat and flair in the middle of the park.
His ability to operate in various midfield roles, from a No. 10 to a more defensive position, offers tactical flexibility that could be crucial in the high-stakes environment of a Merseyside derby.
It remains to be seen if Moyes thinks that Alcaraz is ready to be thrown into the deep end against Arne Slot’s in-form Liverpool side.