The historical reason why David Moyes should start Michael Keane over Jarrad Branthwaite vs Liverpool
Jarrad Branthwaite looks set to return for Everton against Liverpool on Saturday, but history could sway David Moyes’ decision.
Moyes has never beaten Liverpool at Anfield, and the Scot will be looking to gain any advantage he can over the Premier League leaders.
The Toffees have enjoyed a strong start to the season and are unbeaten in four games across all competitions, but the Reds will present a much tougher proposition.
Branthwaite is expected to return against Liverpool, after Moyes confirmed before the Aston Villa game that the defender is close to a return from injury, although his reintegration could be managed.
Michael Keane has proven his importance to Everton in recent weeks, however, and provides a solid option that would likely do no wrong if called upon again.
Michael Keane can make history vs Liverpool
Keane’s start to the season was described as “outstanding” by Leon Osman, with the former Everton midfielder highlighting the defender’s presence in the back-line.
The former Burnley man has made an impressive 6.8 clearances per game this season and won 60.1 per cent of his duels, according to Sofascore.
And the England international was key against Villa, too, with the only criticism levelled at him being that he could not convert from Jack Grealish’s late cross to put the Toffees ahead.
Branthwaite’s impending return gives Moyes a difficult decision to make, however, with the Scot forced to weigh up the form of Keane against the proven quality of the 23-year-old.
| Everton players | Goals against Liverpool (Premier League) |
| Tim Cahill | 5 |
| Duncan Ferguson | 4 |
| Romelu Lukaku | 3 |
| Kevin Campbell | 3 |
| Andrey Kanchelskis | 3 |
| Richarlison | 2 |
| Michael Keane | 2 |
But there is a historical factor that could enter the manager’s thinking, too.
If Keane were to play and score against Liverpool on Saturday, he would become the first defender and just the sixth Everton player ever to score three goals against the Reds in the Premier League.
Furthermore, he would enter a list of just five Toffees to ever score two or more goals in the Premier League at Anfield.
David Moyes should trust Everton history
Of course, other factors will weigh heavily on Moyes’ mind when he picks his starting line-up for Saturday’s clash.
Branthwaite represents the quicker defender, which would undoubtedly prove useful in cutting out attacks from the energetic Liverpool front line.
But when it comes to attacking the ball in both boxes, the Scot can look no further than Keane.
- David Moyes has managed 22 games at Anfield, never emerging victorious.
- The Scot has faced Liverpool 44 times, losing 27 and winning on just six occasions.
The 32-year-old is superb in the air, and if Everton are to sit in a deep block and hope to utilise their set pieces, he could prove crucial.
Moyes may be best minded to trust the history and stick with his starting two, as he looks to win at Anfield for the first time and create some history of his own.
Enjoyed this article? Stay connected with all the latest Everton news, updates, and behind-the-scenes content by following us on our new Instagram account – @goodisonnews