Premier League Live: Liverpool Tactical News and Match Updates

Liverpool manager Arne Slot has opted for a defensive reshuffle ahead of the Premier League clash against Everton, choosing to retain Dominic Szoboszlai in a right-back position despite the midfielder’s importance in central areas.

The decision means Liverpool will be without their best central midfielder in Szoboszlai, who has been deployed out of position to provide defensive cover. Slot has instead prioritised defensive solidity and experience, selecting two full-backs who are stronger in attack than defence, mirroring the profile of the players they replaced.

Slot appears to be banking on the ball-carrying ability and tenacity of Curtis Jones to compensate for the lack of creativity in midfield, hoping Jones can drive the team forward from deeper positions while Szoboszlai operates in a hybrid role.

The tactical adjustment comes amid scrutiny over whether Florian Wirtz, who has been given another opportunity to influence the game, possesses the necessary speed of thought, playmaking intelligence, and combativeness to make an impact despite having more defensively minded support around him.

Liverpool must now rely on midfield resilience and transitional urgency to overcome Everton, with the effectiveness of Slot’s selection likely to hinge on how well Jones and Szoboszlai can adapt to their altered responsibilities.

This report is based on live coverage from The Guardian’s Premier League matchday centre for the Everton v Liverpool fixture on 19 April 2026.