Everton v Liverpool: Mohamed Salah verdict emerges ahead of Merseyside derby

Darren Bent believes both Mohamed Salah and Darwin Nunez will start for Liverpool against Everton on Wednesday, 24 April.

The Egypt international was surprisingly named on the bench as the Reds secured a 3-1 victory at Craven Cottage on Sunday, 21 April.

However, Bent, who is a Sky Sports pundit, does not see Jurgen Klopp leaving him out for a Merseyside derby.

He said on the Kelly and Wrighty Show on 22 April, 2:42pm: "He has to start given the fact that he's Salah. They say he's having a bad season but he's already got 17 goals. He will be in the XI and Darwin Nunez running those channels."

Everton may have their work cut out against a well-rested Mohamed Salah

With Salah rested and potentially eager to prove doubters wrong, the Toffees defence could face a significant challenge.

Salah's inclusion in the starting lineup alongside Nunez, who has shown promise with his pace and ability to stretch defences, presents a formidable attacking threat for Liverpool.

Given the high stakes of a Merseyside derby, Salah's motivation to perform at his best will likely be heightened.

His track record against Everton, including scoring a brace in their last encounter, suggests he has the ability to be a decisive factor in the upcoming match.

As a result, the Toffees' defence will need to be at their best to contain both Salah and Nunez along with the likes of Luis Diaz and Cody Gakpo if they hope to secure a positive result.

Sean Dyche will undoubtedly have a plan in mind for his team and it remains to be seen how he deals with the threat posed by Salah.

In other Everton news, a senior player may never start for the club again after the Chelsea loss and is now very likely to leave in June.

For more Everton news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.