Merseyside Derby: Five things to watch for

5. No Backing Down

In recent years, the Merseyside Derby has caught a bit of flack for not being the heavy fixtures it used to be. With no Steven Gerrard, Tim Cahill, Robbie Fowler, or Phil Neville, the flying challenges and red cards have been largely reduced. In fact, only one player has been sent off in the last ten meetings between the two.

That doesn’t mean the trend will continue today. Tensions will run high on both sides and you could easily see a rash challenge swing the match. It may not be pretty football, but it will be highly competitive. Just don’t expect a ton of cards either way.

Not that it’s necessarily a bad thing, but supporters of these two clubs expect a big showing, and today they may get just that. Liverpool would clearly like all three points as they continue to chase Chelsea, while Everton is desperate for the same to keep their hopes of European qualification alive. Expect a substantial fight out of both sides when Monday night comes round.