Everton is a must-win game for Liverpool, says former defender Phil Babb

Everton take on Liverpool in the Merseyside derby on Super Sunday

By Ben Grounds

Thursday 7 November 2019 11:59, UK

Former Liverpool defender Phil Babb says losing the Merseyside derby would represent a massive psychological blow to their Premier League title aspirations.

Everton have not beaten their cross-city rivals Liverpool in 18 attempts, dating back to October 2010 when strikes from Tim Cahill and Mikel Arteta secured a 2-0 win at Goodison during Roy Hodgson's reign at Liverpool.

After a run of indifferent form, Jurgen Klopp's side returned to their scintillating best with a 5-0 win over Watford on Wednesday night - a result which represents the perfect way to prepare for a hostile environment on Super Sunday.

Speaking on The Debate, former Reds defender Babb believes a major step can be taken towards a first domestic title in 29 years if Liverpool can come away with another three points from a trip across Stanley Park.

He said: "If they win every game, they win the Premier League. Klopp will try his hardest to play it down and diffuse the idea that it might get into their heads with his charm and his charisma, but every single player knows all the talk is about the title.

"Everyone is talking about the confidence issues and how they're feeling. They've only lost one game this season, which puts them in good stead for the last 10.

"If you look at it as a block, this is the title run-in now. This is where you earn your money, and this is where you can become immortal in Liverpool history by winning the title after such a long period of time, and they will know that.

"Sometimes, you find different elements of people's characters in these situations. They've got the quality. It would be psychologically massive if they lose this weekend.

"Ultimately, it's a must-win game."

Liverpool hold a one-point lead over Manchester City, but could head into Sunday's clash in second place with Pep Guardiola's side facing Bournemouth on Saturday.

Everton had lost five of their last six in all competitions before a 3-0 win over Cardiff on Tuesday provided them with a much-needed confidence boost ahead of facing the Premier League leaders.

Tim Sherwood believes Silva has the perfect opportunity to win over his critics after a challenging first season on Merseyside.

He said: "The jury is still out for me, and certainly among the Everton fans the jury is out. That will all be forgotten if they win this game. Stop Liverpool from winning the Premier League by winning this derby, and all is forgotten.