06-02-2010 Liverpool vs Everton

This classic derby match sees a resurgent, if unspectacular Liverpool team take on Everton, the most improved team in the league in recent weeks.

All is not well at Liverpool football club with what appears to be no money to spend and co owners Gillette and Hicks seemingly uninterested in running the club and searching for a way out of their ill thought out investment. Fortunately for Liverpool fans, results seem to be improving on the pitch. Their recent good run of form has seen them creep back up the League table and they now sit fifth, just a point behind Tottenham, although Man City lie in wait in 6th place, with two games in hand on the Reds. Recent form can be put down to better organisation and a strong will from the players to dig themselves out of their malaise. Injuries have of course hit Liverpool hard this season and they still await the return of Torres, El Zhar, Benayoun, Degan, Aurelio and Johnson. Despite this, a core team remains and with the likes of Carragher, Gerrard and Kuyt there are plenty of leaders on the pitch. The players know what this game means to the fans, and without much to shout about so far this season, a win over local rivals might put a smile back on the face of some of the home fans.

Everton have surged up the league in recent weeks and now find themselves in the heady position of ninth. Many pundits put that down to the return of Tim Cahill’s drive and goals from midfield, and the fiery Australian has already put in some great performances since his return from injury. Fans will be licking their lips in anticipation of the return of influential playmaker and free kick specialist Arteta, but sadly this match will probably be a week too early for him.

This is another tough call, but I just think a result is more important for Liverpool – I expect them to sneak a victory on Saturday.

Verdict: Liverpool home win

Odds: 5/6

Bookmaker: William Hill