Liverpool v Everton team news

Mar 30 2008

Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez went for derby experience for the visit of Everton to Anfield in the 207th meeting of the two Merseyside clubs.

He left out full-backs Alvaro Arbeloa and Fabio Aurelio - with one derby match between them - and brought in seasoned campaigners John Arne Riise and Sami Hyypia, with the Finn slotting into central defence and Jamie Carragher moving to the right.

The other change from last week’s 3-0 defeat to Manchester United was enforced with Lucas Leiva taking the place of suspended midfielder Javier Mascherano.

Everton showed two alterations from the team which drew 1-1 with West Ham, Steven Pienaar returning from illness and Joseph Yobo coming back into central defence.

Joleon Lescott moved to left-back to accommodate Yobo, meaning Leighton Baines dropped to the bench, with Tim Cahill missing after breaking his foot.

There was no place in the squad for Andrew Johnson, who was still troubled by a groin injury.