"Losing Henchoz and Hyypia is a massive blow and Rooney could be the deciding factor. But, then you look at the midfields. If Gerrard, Murphy and Hamann hit top form, they should have too much for the likes of Gravesen and Pembridge, honest players though they are.
"The atmosphere won't be a problem for Liverpool. They have played enough big games over the last few years to be able to cope with the noise in Goodison and the fact there will be a few tackles flying about will help them get into the game quickly.
"Apart from the Celtic games, Liverpool haven't had too much to get excited about since the Worthington Cup final. This could just be the type of fixture they need to get back on track. If they do win, things don't seem half as bad.
"It is just nice to see a derby game really mean something. When I was playing in them, there was always something at stake."