Everton vs Liverpool: 5 key battles | Premier League 2020-21

#3 Dominic Calvert-Lewin vs Virgil van Dijk

Dominic Calvert-Lewin is currently the top scorer in the Premier League, with six goals in four matches. Based on his current form, he seems unstoppable and could find himself on the scoresheet once again.

However, Virgil van Dijk, who played a vital role in Liverpool's title victory last season, could be the man to keep Calvert-Lewin quiet throughout the 90 minutes.

In recent games, the Dutch international endured mixed performances and appeared to be a little inconsistent. Out of the four games played, van Dijk has committed one error which led to a goal but has also managed to maintain a 100% tackle success rate.

The duo will be two key figures to watch in the game. Whoever emerges victorious in the duel could help their team secure all three points at Goodison Park.

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#2 James Rodriguez vs Thiago Alcantara

James Rodriguez and Thiago Alcantara were once team-mates at Bayern Munich. Now, the midfielders will come up against each other in the Merseyside clash, with both sides are vying for the title as things stand.

The Colombian international has been sensational since joining Ancelotti's side in the summer and has had a hand in five goals and assists thus far. Likewise, Thiago is also seen as one of the best summer signings in the Premier League. Jurgen Klopp will surely be hoping that the Spaniard makes a similar impact as Rodriguez has with the Toffees.

Due to a positive COVID-19 test, the 29-year-old was forced to isolate and has not played since Liverpool's 2-0 victory over Chelsea. However, the former Bayern midfielder will be available for tomorrow's game and is in line to start for the Reds.

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#1 Carlo Ancelotti vs Jurgen Klopp

At the moment, Ancelotti is possibly the happier of the duo since Everton are at the top of the Premier League table and the only team to remain unbeaten in the competition. The Toffees have enjoyed a flying start to their campaign; the last time they won four consecutive opening games in the Premier League, they went on to win the title.

While confidence is booming for the Everton team, they must remember that Liverpool are unbeaten in the last 10 Merseyside derbies. The Premier League title holders might have lost to Aston Villa, but they have defeated the likes of Arsenal and Chelsea in the opening weeks of the season.

Comparatively, Everton had faced slightly weaker opponents such as West Bromwich Albion and Brighton & Hove Albion. These matches contributed to their good run, and Ancelotti should know that his side will be facing a very different test against the Reds.

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