Everton boss Sean Dyche is adamant he has a “very strong group of players” at his disposal as he attempts to improve the Toffees’ woeful record against derby rivals Liverpool this weekend.
The blue half of Merseyside have only enjoyed one win over Liverpool in their last 25 Premier League attempts – a 2-0 victory at Anfield in February 2021 – and Dyche is desperate to register a second and help move his side away from the lower reaches of the table.
Everton go into Saturday’s game in 16th place, three points above the relegation zone, but 10 behind fourth-placed Liverpool.
Dyche said: “Their record is very strong, they are a very good outfit, we know that. Our record needs changing, we also know that.
“It’s been a long time with not many wins but it [Anfield] is a tough place to go.
“We won’t be listening to any of the noise around it. It is a big game. We will be focusing on our own performance, I think generally they have been strong, but we are taking on a top side.”
Dyche experienced the derby with Blackburn during his time as Burnley boss but he concedes this game is on another level.
He added: “It is a proper derby. I have played in a few and been around a few but it is certainly the biggest one I know and have been involved in. I’ve only had one experience but I will certainly be looking forward to the next one.”
A fitness update on the squad ahead of Saturday’s Merseyside derby.@wearfigs ???? #LIVEVE pic.twitter.com/zMOMyzYGFt
— Everton (@Everton) October 19, 2023
Dyche, who will have midfielder Idrissa Gueye available, hopes the 3-0 win over Bournemouth last time out will give his side confidence as they make the short trip across Stanley Park.
“We were in decent spirits anyway but it reaffirms to the players and the staff that when you get it right and take your chances, and find real cutting edge in your performance, then I have always said that I think we are a decent outfit,” he said.
“I have never lost sight of that or belief in it. I still think that despite all of the recruitment challenges we have still got a very strong group of players.
“It is about performing and delivering and, of course, winning. I was pleased that all came together not just to get a very good performance but also a win.”
