Merseyside Derby: 3 Key Battles That Could Shape The Game

There are few things more exciting than a derby in football, especially if it's close to home. This evening sees Everton make the short trip to Liverpool as the two Merseyside outfits go toe-to-toe in a game that could see them swap place in the Premier League table. Here are three battle where I see the game being won and lost.

1) SAS vs Distin & Jagielka

The main battle of the night has to be the in-form pairing of Suarez and Sturridge against the solid centre-back partnership of Jagielka and Distin.

Liverpool fans have enjoyed 33 league goals between the deadly duo so far this season and plenty more in the cup, but Everton's defensive record is amongst the best in the division right now.

A big plus for the home side though is that the Everton pair are big, strong players who sometimes struggle against nimble opposition.

2) Gerrard vs Barry

The two English stalwarts look to be in line to battle it out in the middle of the pitch, with their colleagues Lucas and James McCarthy at their side.

While Gerrard has the technique and the passing range Barry has the grit and the positioning and the two going head to head could be one of the most crucial fights in the tie.

3) Mirallas vs Cissokho

The Liverpool left-back has struggled to settle this season after his loan move from Valencia and Mirallas will know that. I will be surprised if the Everton winger doesn't attack the Frenchman from the off this evening and make him know that he's in a game, while looking to find space in behind when Cissokho gets forward.

This matchup could have a significant bearing on the display of Romelu Lukaku who will probably be starting up top for the Toffees.