“There’s No Excuse” – David Lynch Previews Liverpool’s Clash with Everton | OneFootball

The Final Chapter at Goodison Park: Liverpool and Everton Gear Up for an Iconic Merseyside Derby

As the Merseyside Derby approaches, emotions are running high with this match marking the final time Liverpool and Everton will clash at the historic Goodison Park. In the latest episode of Media Matters from Anfield Index, journalist David Lynch and host Eddie Gibbs shared their insights, blending nostalgia with tactical expectations for this monumental encounter.

Goodison Park’s Last Stand in the Merseyside Derby

Reflecting on the significance of this fixture, David Lynch described Goodison Park as a “grand old stadium” and expressed deep affection for the venue despite his Liverpool allegiance. “I absolutely love the place,” Lynch said. “I have a lot of affection for Everton because it’s always a great place to go, and the staff there are so kind. It’s just run by great people.” The stadium’s closure marks the end of an era, with Lynch noting, “The Premier League will miss it because you’re losing these great iconic stadiums one by one.”

The transition to Everton’s new stadium is inevitable, but Lynch highlighted the emotional weight of this final derby at Goodison: “I genuinely will miss it when it’s gone.” Eddie Gibbs added that the atmosphere is expected to be electric, particularly with an evening kickoff, which will see “the old lady rocking” in a way that daytime matches seldom do.

Liverpool’s Tactical Edge: Rested and Ready

Turning to the match itself, Lynch and Gibbs were optimistic about Liverpool’s chances. Lynch emphasised the advantage of Liverpool’s well-rested squad: “Fully rested squad now coming into this, no excuse not to match Everton for physicality.” The timing of the fixture, postponed due to weather, now benefits Liverpool as they avoid playing in “blustery, windy gale force conditions” that could have levelled the playing field.

Discussing Everton’s form under David Moyes, Lynch remarked, “The new manager bounce that Everton have got kind of came to a little bit of an end in the Bournemouth game,” suggesting Liverpool face an opponent with waning momentum.

Key Selection Decisions for Arne Slot

A significant part of the conversation revolved around Liverpool’s lineup choices. With Trent Alexander-Arnold recovering from a muscle injury, Lynch confidently predicted that “Conor Bradley is nailed on for right back now,” adding that Bradley’s defensive solidity could prove advantageous against Everton’s physical playstyle.

The decision over the number nine role sparked debate. While Tony Hor suggested Diogo Jota for his clinical finishing, Lynch leaned towards Darwin Nunez, noting his “physical focal point up front” would be better suited to counter Everton’s direct approach. “I’m kind of leaning towards him going with Nunez there,” Lynch stated, citing Nunez’s improved pressing and build-up play.

Predictions and Title Implications

As the podcast drew to a close, Lynch confidently predicted a “solid 2-0 win” for Liverpool, which would give the Reds a winning record at Goodison Park. “If Liverpool win, obviously they will have won more derbies at Goodison Park than Everton,” he pointed out, underlining the historical significance of this match.

Beyond the derby, Lynch reflected on Liverpool’s title race prospects: “In this next five games, Liverpool can’t really lose the league, but they could win it.” A strong performance in this stretch could not only secure the Premier League title but also position Liverpool favourably in the Champions League and upcoming cup final against Newcastle.

As Lynch aptly summarised, “There’s never been a better time to be a Red,” encapsulating the optimism surrounding Liverpool’s current form and future prospects.