The Merseyside derby is always a heated affair, but this Saturday’s clash at the Hill Dickinson Stadium has taken an unexpected twist, with pundit Paul Merson urging Liverpool manager Arne Slot to make a bold tactical decision. Merson has called for Conor Bradley to start at right-back over Jeremie Frimpong, citing the revitalized form of Everton’s loan star Jack Grealish as a key reason for the switch.
Grealish’s Resurgence at Everton
Jack Grealish, who struggled for form during his final season at Manchester City, has found a new lease on life since joining Everton on a season-long loan. The 30-year-old attacking midfielder has been a revelation for the Toffees, leading the Premier League assists chart with four goal contributions and earning the Player of the Month award for August. Grealish has publicly stated that Everton was the only club he wanted to join, and his performances have justified that passion.
“Grealish is Everton’s danger man,” Merson told Sportskeeda. “If you play Jeremie Frimpong at right-back, he’s not a good defender, and he bombs forward all the time. Conor Bradley is the best choice to handle Grealish in this game.” Merson’s comments have sparked debate among Liverpool fans, many of whom see Frimpong as a dynamic attacking full-back whose flair could be crucial in such a high-stakes match.
Selection Dilemmas for Slot
Merson’s advice doesn’t stop at the right-back position. On the opposite flank, Arne Slot faces another selection headache. Bournemouth loanee Milos Kerkez has struggled to adapt to Liverpool’s system, and his lackluster performance against Burnley saw him substituted at halftime for Andy Robertson. The Scottish captain, who also scored in Liverpool’s recent Champions League victory over Atletico Madrid, has made a strong case to reclaim his spot in the starting lineup.
“Arne Slot has so many options available,” Merson added. “He’ll have to ensure he keeps all of them happy, but the derby is no place for sentiment. You pick the players who can handle the occasion.”
Liverpool’s Lucky Streak: Sustainable or Not?
Beyond the lineup debate, Merson also raised concerns about Liverpool’s recent string of results. The Reds have started the season in impeccable form, winning all five of their matches across the Premier League and Champions League. However, Merson pointed out a worrying trend: each of these victories has been secured with a winning goal after the 80th minute.
“Liverpool have been extremely lucky this season,” Merson said. “They’ve carried it into the Champions League as well. People keep telling me they’re showing signs of a champion team, but I just think they’re lucky. You can’t keep winning games like you did against Burnley and Atletico Madrid. That’s not sustainable. At some point, luck runs out.”
The Derby Stakes
As Liverpool prepare to face their fierce rivals, Slot’s team selections will be under intense scrutiny. The decision to potentially bench Frimpong in favor of Bradley could signal a more cautious approach to neutralize Grealish’s influence. Meanwhile, the choice between Kerkez and Robertson at left-back will test Slot’s ability to balance youth and experience in a match where every decision counts.
With Everton buoyed by Grealish’s form and Liverpool riding a wave of late victories, the stage is set for a blockbuster Merseyside derby. Will Slot heed Merson’s advice and opt for Bradley’s defensive solidity, or will he stick with Frimpong’s attacking flair? And can Liverpool continue their winning streak, or will Merson’s warning about their reliance on luck prove prophetic? One thing is certain: the Hill Dickinson Stadium will be electric this Saturday.