With the Merseyside derby fast approaching, Liverpool will be well aware that Everton are heading into the game in a strong position from a fitness standpoint.

David Moyes has now provided a detailed update on his squad ahead of Sunday’s clash at Hill Dickinson Stadium, and the message is largely positive for our neighbours.

Moyes delivers positive Everton team news

Speaking via Evertonfc.com, Moyes confirmed that his side have no fresh injury concerns going into the derby, which is far from ideal for us given our own recent setbacks.

That alone underlines the challenge facing Arne Slot’s side, especially when you factor in the physical toll of our recent fixtures and the loss of key players.

The Scottish manager also confirmed a key return, adding: “Charly Alcaraz is back and back training now… I think we’re as much close to [fully fit] as we can be.”

Having more options available gives Everton flexibility, particularly in a high-intensity game where energy and squad depth can often make the difference.

Liverpool facing tougher task with injuries

In contrast, we are dealing with a number of issues heading into the fixture, with Joe Gomez already ruled out after his withdrawal against PSG, something Arne Slot confirmed with a blunt “No” when asked about his availability.

That defensive concern adds to the wider context, especially when momentum hasn’t exactly been on our side following recent results.

Hugo Ekitike has also spoken out after his long-term injury was confirmed and we arrive in a much worse position than our opponents.

Moyes also made it clear that his players are fully motivated by the opportunity ahead, particularly with European qualification still within reach.

“Well, if they don’t rise to it, then I don’t know what they’d rise to,” the former Manchester United boss said, before stressing that his team should embrace the chance to push for something meaningful rather than merely survive.

There is also expected to be a strong atmosphere generated by the home support, with organised displays and a coach welcome planned, something Moyes openly welcomed as part of rebuilding the connection between club and fans.

All of that combines to create a difficult environment for us, because while derby form often ignores logic, the reality is that Everton are arriving in better physical condition, with confidence growing at their new home.

It means that for Liverpool, this becomes less about preparation on paper and more about mentality, because overcoming both the

occasion and the opponent will be key if we are to take anything from the game.

Arne Slot admits Hugo Ekitike’s injury will impact Liverpool summer transfer plans

Arne Slot has admitted that Hugo Ekitike’s recent injury could be a factor in Liverpool’s transfer plans for the summer.

“I think you always take into account which players you are having available for large parts of next season and then you think ‘what’s there on the market, what can we afford, who wants to come to us?’,” the Reds’ head coach told a press conference.

“So it is not as simple as people think it is… ‘oh there is a good player walking around, let’s sign him’. You always look at your squad for the short and long-term.

“Especially this club is very focused on the long-term, a lot of other clubs are very focused on the short-term but this club tries to combine that with the long-term.

“So a lot of factors go into a decision and one of them is definitely Hugo being out and the other one is what is available and what does the rest of the team look like and what do we need?

“But we are mainly focused here on the upcoming six games because that could also impact our plans for the summer at this club.”

Ekitike has suffered a serious Achilles injury that may rule him out for the remainder of the calendar year, leaving Alexander Isak as the only senior striker, although he is still getting up to speed after a long time on the sidelines.

🔴 Liverpool interested in Adam Wharton

Liverpool FC are now one of several top clubs tracking Adam Wharton.

Crystal Palace FC value him at around £80 million and are prepared to demand that fee if he leaves this summer. �

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📈 Why Wharton is in demand

The 22-year-old has quickly become one of the Premier League’s standout young midfielders since joining Palace in 2024. �

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Known for his composure, passing, and game control, he’s already attracting interest from clubs like Manchester United and Real Madrid. �

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🔄 Why Liverpool are looking at midfield changes

Liverpool’s interest isn’t random — it’s tied to possible squad changes:

Curtis Jones

Could leave Anfield, with previous interest from Inter Milan. �

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Alexis Mac Allister

His future is uncertain, with links to Real Madrid and contract concerns. �

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👉 Because of this, Liverpool are actively exploring midfield reinforcements.

⚙️ How Wharton fits Liverpool

Manager Arne Slot wants to refresh and upgrade the midfield. �

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Wharton could:

Add deep-lying creativity

Compete with players like Ryan Gravenberch and Dominik Szoboszlai

Become a long-term core player

⚠️ One concern

Some reports say Liverpool have minor doubts about his physicality and intensity in a high-press system. �

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🧠 Bottom line

✔️ Interest is real and recent

✔️ £80m price tag is accurate

✔️ Move depends on outgoings + competition from other clubs

Right now, it’s a serious transfer battle, not a done deal.

If you want, I can break down:

�⁠Whether Wharton is actually worth £80m

Or �⁠Liverpool’s likely midfield lineup next season with/without him