Frank Lampard has 'pre-warned' Everton about concerning trend for Liverpool

Everton need to prevent a recent pattern from becoming a trend if they are to give themselves the best chance of taking something from the Merseyside Derby.

The Blues have conceded early goals - and early chances - in several games, hampering their ability to gain a foothold in matches. Accepting the need to address this ahead of the trip to Anfield, Frank Lampard said it was something his squad was working on.

With Liverpool’s potency in the opening minutes providing the foundation for their last two victories, Lampard acknowledged “it is important that we do everything we can to stop that”.

Everton conceded after just 12 minutes in their battle against relegation rivals Burnley earlier this month. Nathan Collins’ opener came after the Clarets started on the front foot at Turf Moor, though Everton fought back before ultimately losing that tie. On Wednesday, Harvey Barnes prodded home for Leicester City after just five minutes while James Maddison almost doubled the visitors’ lead moments later as Everton struggled in the early stages of a game that had been earmarked by many supporters as a major opportunity for a crucial three points.

Of the limited threat posed by Manchester United, most of the danger came in the opening 25 minutes, Jordan Pickford making two important saves before Anthony Gordon’s decisive strike. In contrast, Jurgen Klopp’s Liverpool are renowned for starting on the front foot.

Early goals have proved key to recent, important victories over both Manchester rivals. In the FA Cup semi-final against Manchester City last Saturday Ibrahima Konate opened the scoring after 12 minutes. Luis Diaz needed just five minutes to break the deadlock as Liverpool humiliated Manchester United on Tuesday.

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