Liverpool line-ups vs Everton as Alexander Isak and Alexis Mac Allister calls made

Liverpool continue to face a series of big matches. After already squaring off against Newcastle and Arsenal in the Premier League, and Atletico Madrid in the Champions League, Saturday sees the Reds welcoming local rivals Everton for the season's first Merseyside derby.

Arne Slot's defending champions are the favourites. Despite not yet reaching their peak form, they have triumphed in their opening four top-flight matches before netting another late winner to defeat Atletico Madrid midweek. Everton, despite their own dismal record at Anfield, are a team on the up under the guidance of returning David Moyes. Therefore, Reds boss Arne Slot will not be taking the 247th meeting between these eternal rivals lightly.

But how will the Dutchman line up? With a fully fit squad at his disposal, he faces some pleasant selection dilemmas. We'll discover his choices soon enough. But for now, here's what our Liverpool Echo writers believe Slot should do....

Paul Gorst

Having navigated two-thirds of a challenging week with two victories and a couple of stoppage-time winners, Arne Slot might be ready to utilise more of his squad for the 247th Merseyside derby.

With three changes made for Wednesday night's 3-2 victory over Atletico Madrid, could we see further alterations for the Blues' visit?

For me, I'm choosing to keep the same back five as Wednesday night, despite the temptation to bring back Conor Bradley on the right side.

In the midfield, there's a strong inclination to bring back Alexis Mac Allister, but it's tough to sideline either Dominik Szoboszlai or Ryan Gravenberch, who are both in top form at the moment. Szoboszlai has arguably been Liverpool's standout player this early in the season, while Gravenberch is, in my opinion, one of the best midfielders in Europe right now.

Further up the pitch, Florian Wirtz gets the green light. The German international has been improving with each game and his performance against Atletico Madrid, especially in the second half, was promising.

This could be the match where he truly shines.

Hugo Ekitike replaces Alexander Isak, whose significant contribution on Wednesday came with a price. The £125m man should get 15 or 20 minutes off the bench, all being well.

My team (4-2-3-1): Alisson; Frimpong, Konate, Van Dijk, Robertson; Szoboszlai, Gravenberch; Salah, Wirtz, Gakpo; Ekitike.

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Ian Doyle

The Merseyside derby, a match that everyone adores - as long as they're not involved in it.

There were two major clashes last season and there's no reason to believe today's game will be any different.

So, what should Liverpool manager Arne Slot do?

Changes are necessary. Not in goal, though, where Alisson Becker remains the first choice.

Conor Bradley, however, can step in at right-back, with Andy Robertson retaining his position at left-back and Ibrahima Konate continuing to partner captain Virgil van Dijk in central defence.

In the midfield, there's no need for change. Dominik Szoboszlai can continue to partner with Ryan Gravenberch in the double pivot, with Florian Wirtz taking up the number 10 role.

Up front, Hugo Ekitike is set to take centre stage as the main striker, flanked by Mohamed Salah on the right and Cody Gakpo on the left.

My team (4-2-3-1): Alisson; Bradley, Konate, Van Dijk, Robertson; Szoboszlai, Gravenberch; Salah, Wirtz, Gakpo; Ekitike.

Theo Squires

With Arsenal set to face Manchester City on Sunday, Liverpool have a golden opportunity to extend their lead at the top of the Premier League table when they host Everton at Anfield.

But when has a Merseyside derby ever been straightforward?

While the Reds have relied on late winners in their last five matches, they'll be hoping for less drama against their local rivals.

I'd make one alteration to the back five for this match, bringing in Conor Bradley at right-back. This isn't a slight on Jeremie Frimpong, who impressed against Atletico Madrid.

But it's derby day, so let's include at least one academy graduate in the side - especially given the influx of new signings in the squad.

Alexis Mac Allister will have to settle for a spot on the bench once again as Dominik Szoboszlai continues in the number eight role.

And Alexander Isak will step down from the starting XI after his standout performance against Atletico. He'll have to be content with a substitute appearance - and who knows, perhaps he'll be the next late match-winner - with Hugo Ekitike stepping in to spearhead the attack.

My team (4-2-3-1): Alisson; Bradley, Konate, Van Dijk, Robertson; Szoboszlai, Gravenberch; Salah, Wirtz, Gakpo; Ekitike.