Everton vs Liverpool - 5 Key Battles To Define The Derby

2. The Battle Of The Full Backs

Full back is a position where both sides are not short of quality. Everton possess England left back Leighton Baines and the attack-minded Seamus Coleman, while the Reds also have an England international in Glen Johnson and French loanee Aly Cissokho, who steps in to replace the injured Jose Enrique. This could be an intriguing battle on both sides of the pitch. All four are more known for the foraging runs forward than defensive instincts. It effectively comes down to who gets the upper hand early on and who has the most possession. If Everton can retain the ball for long periods, which has become a blueprint of Roberto Martinez's teams, Baines and Coleman can get beyond the half way line and pin their Liverpool counterparts in their own half. The same applies for Liverpool's full backs. Quality of delivery is also key to this battle. Baines contributions, be it from free kicks or crosses, are something the Reds will be well aware of. Cissokho, although still a largely unknown quantity at Premier League level, can threaten in the same way Everton's left back does. Victory could well be swayed by which team keeps possession of the ball, providing a free licence for attacking intent from the back.