Liverpool vs Everton: 3 key battles which could decide the Merseyside derby | Premier League 2018-19

The Merseyside rivalry is one for the ages, with Liverpool and Everton embroiled in a fiery battle for supremacy. Liverpool has been the dominant side for all these years, but The Toffees are indeed not ones to be taken lightly.

Jurgen Klopp's side has been going toe to toe with Manchester City at the top, and The Reds are unbeaten in the league and have conceded only 5 goals so far from the first 13 games. The acquisition of Van Dijk and Alisson has significantly improved the squad which is aiming for major silverware this season after missing out on the Champions League last time out.

Everton, on the other hand have shown signs of improvement under their new manager, Marco Silva. Last season, The Toffees had a dismal run of form until Sam Allardyce took charge of the club and ensured a top half finish. However, under Allardyce they played defensive football, relying heavily on set pieces and long balls, which isn't the case this time around.

Both sides have invested heavily in the transfer market, and have abundant options on the bench. Anfield is a fortress, this might force Marco Silva to arrange the team defensively, and rely on counter attacks with the likes of Walcott and Richarlison providing pace and width up front.

With quality players on both ends, here are three battles which could decide the course of the match.

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#3 Mo Salah vs Mina/Keane

Mina would have his first taste of the Merseyside derby

Whenever Liverpool plays, Mo Salah would be the first name on the mind of any opposition manager. The Egyptian started slowly this season, but now he is on a goal-scoring spree. His link-up play with Mane and Firmino has bamboozled many defenses in the league.

Both of Everton's centre backs have to be at their very best to deal with the guile and craft of Salah. Yerry Mina, who signed for The Toffees in the summer would have his first real test in an Everton jersey.

#2 Richarlison vs Trent Alexander-Arnold

Arnold is a promising young right back

The acquisition of Richarlison in the summer has brought in the much-needed creativity and flair on the flanks which was missing last season. The Brazilian started the season well for The Toffees, and it's a nightmare for any defender to play against him. He is the top scorer for the club this season, with 6 goals so far to his name.

The Everton forward would be up against one of the most promising right backs in the Premier League. Arnold has prospered under Jurgen Klopp, and he is everything the manager embodies.

The England international is not only sound in defense, but provides the necessary threat in attack as well. He repeatedly marauds forward to provide dangerous crosses for Salah and co to pounce on.

Everton's biggest threat comes from the flanks, but if the Liverpool right-back manages to get the better of the Brazilian on the day, it could be a long evening for The Toffees.

#1 Coleman vs Sadio Mane

Mane is one of the best forwards in the league

Seamus Coleman is one of the most experienced defenders in the Premier League. The Republic of Ireland captain has been with The Toffees since 2009, and till date he is a reliable member of the squad.

During March 2017, Coleman suffered a fractured tibia after a dangerous challenge by Neil Taylor while on international duty. However, he has recovered, and is now a regular starter under Marco Silva.

Coleman would be up against Sadio Mane who has been in tremendous form this season. Earlier in the campaign, when Salah was struggling to score, Mane banged in goal after goal, and kept Liverpool in touching distance of Manchester City. Moreover, with his pace and power, he can give any defense a run for its money.

Mane is often the man who comes up with the goods when the chips are down. The Everton right-back would have to be at his very best to stand any chance of stopping the Senegalese from performing at his best.