Everton manager Ronald Koeman believes Liverpool’s defensive record will be their Achilles’ heel in the Merseyside derby.
Both Koeman and Jurgen Klopp will enjoy their first taste of a Goodison Park clash between the city’s two great rivals during Monday night’s showdown.
The Dutchman heads into the clash buoyant after the Blues ended a poor run which had seen them win just one of their previous 11 Premier League games.
And Koeman is under no illusions about where the Anfield club can be hurt most when they make the short journey across Stanley Park early next week.
When asked about Liverpool’s weakest link, he said: “That is the defensive side of the game – and yes, we need to press.
“I’m not sure but I think Liverpool have conceded more goals than anyone ahead of us.
“The 10th most in the league, yes? Ah, not so good!”
Ross Barkley may retain his place after excelling in Tuesday’s win over Arsenal and may prove to be the only local player on the pitch in the 227th derby.
And the Everton manager admits the presence of a home-grown figure has the potential to reaffirm the importance of the clash to his team mates.
“Of course the local players know the importance of a derby, so yes perhaps,” added Koeman.
“But every player needs to use that aggression in a positive way for every game.
“The players from inside Liverpool will have more feeling for what this game really means, of course.”