Peter Crouch claims that Liverpool will defeat Everton and that there is a "very big" gap between the teams

Widad October 19, 2023 0

Photo: Peter Crouch. Credit: The Peter Crouch Film

 Peter Crouch says he can’t see beyond a Liverpool win against Everton in Saturday’s Merseyside derby as the two clubs are at “different ends of the spectrum” and the “gap is very big".

The 243rd Merseyside derby will be shown live on TNT Sports on Saturday, with coverage starting at 11am UK time.

Jurgen Klopp’s side have made an encouraging start to the Premier League season, but the early signs have pointed towards another difficult campaign ahead for the Toffees.

The derby clash at Anfield is one of the showcase events of the season, but former Liverpool striker Crouch is not expecting a competitive contest regardless of the rivalry.

“I've had the privilege to be able to play in those games and the atmosphere is always electric,” Crouch told TNT Sports.

“Being at Anfield, it's going to be a tough ask for Everton. I imagine Liverpool will come out on top.

“The gap between Liverpool and Everton is very big,” he added.

“Even the staunchest Everton fan would admit that. They are at different ends of the spectrum.

“Liverpool had a disappointing season last season and are getting back to their best. You can't see anything other than a Liverpool win.”

Crouch represented 12 clubs during his playing career and featured in some of the fiercest derby matches in English football, and he was asked where the Merseyside derby ranks.

“It's right up there. I remember my first one at Goodison Park, I managed to score in it,” he said.

“I remember speaking to the local lads beforehand and they were like: ‘If you score in this one people will always remember it.’ It was the same with the Man United game.

“I played in some big ones. I think Aston Villa v Birmingham was always a big one, obviously the north London derby, Portsmouth v Southampton, there have been a few derbies over the years!

“But the Merseyside derby is right up there with the biggest.”

As for the Premier League title race, Crouch expects defending champions Manchester City to retain the title but believes Liverpool could provide a challenge.

“I think they are definitely in with a shout. I think it's them and Arsenal chasing City,” he said.

“If you had to hang your hat on it or, you had to have a bet on it for your life, then you'd say City win the league. But I think Liverpool can be the best of the rest and push them all the way.” - Eurosport