I would imagine Alisson is still concussion. He really got whacked against Colombia for Brazil, and if he’s in any way borderline for the derby, an abundance of caution seems the right way to go against those yard dogs.
As for the attack, I’m backing them to do well. It has already been pointed out that Diaz and Jota looked sharp on the international break. And I like the idea of bringing Nunez on around the hour mark, as Everton start to tire. Gakpo is working his way back to match fitness and he might see some action. I also liked what I saw of Chiesa and I hope he sees some action, if not today, then before the season end.
We have six attackers there, and we should have the formula to switch them in and out so at any given time the three on the pitch can perform.
Formation? I would go with a 343, although I would be slightly concerned if Beto managed to get himself into a 1v1 aerially with Robbo.
We are much the better side and should win. In a way we need to, to put the disappointment of the last couple behind us, and put wind in our sails for the run-in. It’s not do or die as we have margin to spare, but we should be looking to put the hammer down and get this done, ASAP.
