FT: Everton 0-0 Liverpool

1. Gerrard's final Merseyside league derby ends goalless
2. Sturridge comes off bench for Liverpool
3. Toffees remain 12 points behind Reds

Fascinating tactical battle = boring 0-0.

Night, night, we're off to watch Dad's Army on BBC Two. If you want more football, join the Euro boys here. Carlitos has just bagged.

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BBC Radio 5 live

Everton manager Roberto Martinez: "It was a tense derby with a lot of controlled play from both teams. It was a fascinating tactical battle, I thought. It was always going to be about small margins and it was a satisfying battle.

"Liverpool are in good form but we wanted to win the game, so we cannot be completely satisfied with the draw. But we have to be pleased with some individual performances. And as a team I thought we were strong, always in control and are now six games unbeaten."

Everton full-back Bryan Oviedo: Great team effort!

Manager reaction

Everton manager Roberto Martinez: "We want to get better in every department. It's important to keep clean sheets but in the same manner we want to create and score goals.

"I thought today was an interesting tactical battle on the pitch,. We both had our turns in charge of the game. You could see that one goal would do it for either side. I am extremely satisfied with the performance.

"Ross Barkley when he came on gave a really focussed performance We carried a threat all the way through.

"We were heavily tested from a tactical point of view but we defended extremely well."

Manager reaction

Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers, speaking to Sky Sports: "I though we were outstanding over the course of the game. You don't know until you put a young player in how he is going to perform but Jordon Ibe only turned 19 in December. He puts a shift in and he's only going to get better. We had a lot of outstanding British talent in the team."

On securing a top-four finish: "We're still fighting and in a good position. It was important we got something from tonight. Our level of performances are at a high level."

Tears for Piers

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BBC Radio 5 live

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Harry Kane wouldn't get on our bench," tweeted celebrity Arsenal supporter Piers Morgan earlier this afternoon.

The inevitable Twitter storm ensued, and now Piers is on 6-0-6 with Darren Fletcher and Robbie Savage.

"What I obviously meant was that Kane wouldn't be on the bench, because he would start."

Last again Sunderland...

THE RUNNING ORDER

Match of the Day

The MOTD running order is in:

1. Tottenham v Arsenal

2. Aston Villa v Chelsea

3. Man City v Hull

4. QPR v Southampton

5. Everton v Liverpool

6. Leicester v Crystal Palace

7. Swansea v Sunderland

Manager reaction

Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers: "I thought we were very good. The performance level of the players was outstanding. Everton had one shot on target and going forward we looked a real threat. It was only that final bit of luck that could have got us in.

"Overall I'm delighted. Jordon Ibe is a big talent, I was debating whether to keep him here in the summer but I felt it was important to get him out and play and feel the pressure.

"He did a great job with Steve McClaren at Derby and we knew he'd be ready to play in the team. With a bit more luck he would have got a goal tonight, he is at a high level."

Brendan Rodgers has won his 184th point in his 100th Premier League game in charge of Liverpool. The only Liverpool manager to have won more points in his opening 100 PL games in charge of the club was Rafa Benitez (186).

Kane you believe it?

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BBC Radio 5 live

Reuters

A caller on 6-0-6 tells Robbie Savage: "Robbie, I genuinely think Harry Kane could, in the future, be as good as Zlatan Ibrahimovic".

There's a pause. Savage: "That's one of the biggest calls anyone has ever made on 6-0-6."

Your thoughts?

Player reaction

Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard, speaking to Sky Sports: "Both sides cancelled each other out first. We were looking for that spark but it never came and both defences were on top. Jordon Ibe was fantastic and he only found out he was playing yesterday. He was man of the match, it was a sensational performance from him and he's got a big future.

"We can't have too many complaints. I love playing here, Goodison Park is a great stadium and I have some wonderful memories here. I will miss the Merseyside derby but maybe there's one more left in the Europa League."

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Javel Bleach: That's the top four gone for Liverpool. Too many points to make up now against too many teams. Took too many games to get going.

Martin Robertson: Why did it take Everton 85mins to bring on Barkley and decide they could attack Liverpool? Terrible game.

Tomas Kinney: Pretty sure there's been a worse derby than that, but I certainly can't remember one...

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Player reaction

Everton defender Phil Jagielka: "It was a good clean sheet, there wasn't much to do for either goalkeeper and 0-0 was a fair result. They have got a lot of pace and we stopped them well.

"We have tightened things up which is a good starting point."

Reuters

Phil McNulty

BBC Sport chief football writer

"Grim spectacle at Goodison Park in the 224th Merseyside derby. Chances and quality at a premium. Everton nullified Philippe Coutinho and Raheem Sterling but it was only when Ross Barkley came on in the last five minutes that they posed a threat of their own."

Ex-Everton winger Ronny Goodlass, BBC Radio Merseyside

"Liverpool enjoyed a lot of possession in the second half, but both sides let themselves down in the last third with the quality of crosses and shots. Ibe's effort off the post and Mignolet's late save from Coleman were the best chances, but the 0-0 is about right."

Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard is full of praise for Jordon Ibe, who won man-of-the-match with a lively show on the Liverpool wing.

"Keep working hard and he's got a great future ahead of him," says the skipper.

EPA

Former Liverpool midfielder David Thompson, BBC Radio Merseyside

"That match will probably be last on Match of the Day. There wasn't too much goalmouth action despite a lot of effort and huffing and puffing. The whole match lacked creativity, despite a great atmosphere inside the ground. It just wasn't happening today."

Everton chairman Bill Kenwright seems happy enough with a draw, he's laughing and joking in the director's box. A good point?

FULL-TIME

Nil nil. Very nil nil. A poor game devoid of much excitement or action at all. North London wins the 'derby of the day' award, closely followed by Madrid.

That's a nice balanced view.

Into stoppage time. Set for 0-0?

EPA

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Ian: Sakho worries me about as much as an arachnophobe is worried about a funnel web spider.

Stan in Darlington: Sakho has been our best defender since we've switched to 3-4-3. Can pick a pass, shepherd a ball, has been an excellent support to Skrtel and has much better feet then people give him credit for. One of the best defenders in the league so far.

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Ross Barkley spreads the ball through to Aaron Lennon, whose cross is well claimed. Barkley in contention for man-of-the-match despite only coming on in the 85th minute...

Ex-Everton winger Ronny Goodlass, BBC Radio Merseyside

"What a good run by Ross Barkley, and it was a lovely switch of play. Coleman was in the place he inhabited all of last season when he scored plenty of goals. It was a great hit but an equally great save by Simon Mignolet."

CLOSE!

Close at the other end too as Steven Gerrard curls wide. Maybe we are on for late drama after all...

GREAT SAVE!

Ross Barkley with the pass of the match! Where was he from kick-off? Barkley switches play and takes six Liverpool men out of the game, freeing Seamus Coleman into the area. Coleman hammers in a shot which is well saved by Simon Mignolet. What a ball!

Former Liverpool midfielder David Thompson, BBC Radio Merseyside

"I'm surprised Roberto Martinez hasn't thrown caution to the wind in term of making his substitutions earlier, to be honest."

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SUBSTITUTION

Ross Barkley - who was close to coming on in the 40th minute - finally gets on in place of Steven Naismith. Everton make their final change too as Muhamed Besic is replaced by Antolin Alcaraz.

Rickie Lambert turns and drags a low shot straight at Joel Robles as Liverpool look for the late winner.

SUBSTITUTION

I don't think I've called this game either of those things Rob! It's dull, can Rickie Lambert liven it up? He's on for Raheem Sterling.

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Adam in the Wirral: "Low key" would be the kindest way to describe this Merseyside derby. The evening kick off has a lot to answer for.

Mae from London: Well, there is clearly only one winner for best Premier League derby of the day.

Rob in Shropshire: Why aren't you calling this game boring? If this was Villa v Hull it would be the worst game ever, but just because it's a Merseyside derby it's called "tense" and "on a knife-edge".

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It's getting tasty now as Mo Besic goes into the book too. More dawdling on the ball from Mamadou Sakho almost costs his side as Aaron Lennon drives on and puts in a low cross which is dealt with.

Does Sakho worry you, Liverpool fans?

AFP

YELLOW CARD

Jordan Henderson is booked for his part in the melee, as is Steven Naismith. They are still arguing about it.

Reuters

Steven Naismith grabs the shirt of Jordan Henderson and it triggers a right old set-to, with 15 or so players getting involved. It's getting a bit silly.

Former Liverpool midfielder David Thompson, BBC Radio Merseyside

"I think it's time for Liverpool to make a change. The game is there for the taking. Bring someone like Markovic or Lambert on."

Everton win a corner, Aaron Lennon slices it into the Gwladys. Goalless draw?

PA

Ex-Everton winger Ronny Goodlass, BBC Radio Merseyside

"In the last few weeks for Liverpool, Emre Can really has slotted into that defensive position really well, and of course as a former midfielder he's great on the ball. His composure has really surprised me today."

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Rob Meech: Lennon and McCarthy on the pitch for Everton. Almost a headline writer's dream.

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I can't decide if that is brilliant or crazy from Emre Can. He wins the ball from Romelu Lukaku, but then beats the Belgian three times on the edge of his area and almost loses out. Sometimes, you have to get rid...

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Four Leaf Ent: Both teams clueless in the final third. Very disappointing Merseyside derby thus far.

Andrew Wright: Anti-football from both sides. What a disappointing, toothless approach to a derby!

Tokunbo: Get Romelu Lukaku off, give him two weeks rest and he will be fresh for the rest of the season.

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YELLOW CARD

Bryan Oviedo is booked for a hack on Jordon Ibe - Liverpool wanted the ref to play on as it was heading nicely for Daniel Sturridge. But Steven Gerrard will have the free-kick.

CLOSE!

Chance! Jordon Ibe beats his man down the right, a great low cross looks to be running into the path of Alberto Moreno but he can't sort his feet out and it bounces away, before Daniel Sturridge's follow-up is well blocked.

Stand by your phone

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BBC Radio 5 live

Have your say on the day's big football stories with Darren Fletcher and Robbie Savage, as 6-0-6 starts a little later than usual on BBC Radio 5 live.

Call 0500 909 693 (free from most landlines but some networks and mobile operators will charge). Email [e-mail]. Text 85058 or find the programme on social media on @bbc606.

Aaron Lennon has his first run at the Liverpool defence but it comes to nothing. He's an infuriating winger but he can beat a man. It's looking like one moment of magic or one clanger could settle this game.

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Ade: RobertoMartinez's rotation/resting of Ross Barkley smacks of trying-too-hard-to-be-clever management.

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I wouldn't trust Mamadou Sakho as far as I could throw him. Which would not be very far at all. The Liverpool defender is always a moment away from danger, and he almost gifts Romelu Lukaku a run in on goal with a shoddy backpass but Martin Skrtel manages to get over and hack it away. He gives his defensive partner a glare.

Liverpool have had 62% of the ball since the interval, they're bossing the game but can they test Joel Robles again?

AFP

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Paul Walmsley: Surprised Philippe Coutinho is off. Jordon Ibe hasn't been in the game second half.

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Ex-Everton winger Ronny Goodlass, BBC Radio Merseyside

"Gareth Barry hasn't had one of his better games - he keeps giving the ball away, and we simply can't hold onto it. Introducing Aaron Lennon is as much about getting Liverpool to change their play as anything, because he's a player that can have an impact."

Text us on 81111

After a BBC reporter unwittingly asked former Liverpool goalkeeper Tommy Lawrence for his memories of a 1967 derby game against Everton, a few of you have been sending in similar stories.

Andy, London: An Irish friend who benefitted from corporate hospitality at the opening match of the 2006 World Cup turned to the man sitting next to him at half-time and said: 'Do you know anything about football?' The man answered 'A little'. The man was Sir Alex Ferguson.

Surely you mean 2006 Andy?

SUBSTITUTION

Liverpool keeping Everton pinned in their half, they can't get out. The ball does go out of play and here is Aaron Lennon, replacing Kevin Mirallas.

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Phil McNulty

BBC Sport chief football writer

"Liverpool are looking far more likely at the start of this second half and manager Brendan Rodgers will hope the introduction of Daniel Sturridge will give them that end product they are lacking. Everton are currently struggling to create anything and there is growing impatience around Goodison Park."

Quite a few of you are suggesting that Steven Gerrard should have been the man to make way for Daniel Sturridge. The captain was never going to come off. Everton will have Aaron Lennon on shortly.

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SUBSTITUTION

Big change for the Reds. Daniel Sturridge is on up front as Philippe Coutinho comes off. Can Sturridge unlock the Blues?

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Former Liverpool midfielder David Thompson, BBC Radio Merseyside

"Liverpool are stepping it up, pinging the ball around and starting to unlock Everton. But it feels like the goal is coming, with all this Liverpool pressure starting to take effect."

CLOSE!

That is a very big chance! Liverpool get Raheem Sterling behind the defence, he goes for goal at the near post but Joel Robles makes the save. Steven Gerrard wanted the square ball but there were four defenders around him.

From the corner, Gerrard tries an acrobatic effort, a Mark Hughes-style scissor kick, but it's deflected narrowly over! Liverpool dialling up the pressure.

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Dominic O'Caollai: Joe Allen is no Lucas. As good as Daniel's Sturridge return is, Lucas looking like he's out for a while is a huge blow for Liverpool.

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The first murmurs from the home crowd as Everton really struggle to get the ball forwards. All their play is in the middle third.

Gareth Barry gives it away again and the counter ends with Raheem Sterling shooting at Joel.

Chance! Gareth Barry is slow to get rid of the ball and he's caught by Philippe Coutinho. Liverpool are momentarily four-on-one but the Brazilian can't pick a clinical pass and John Stones is able to deal with it.

CLOSE!

Kevin Mirallas is all over a free-kick from 25 yards out. He takes it, whips one over the wall and it skims into the side-netting. Good try from the Belgian, but his compatriot Simon Mignolet had it covered.

A low-key start to the second half. Steady, steady stuff from both sides. Who will ignite the tinderbox?

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Dobs: I imagine Daniel Sturridge and Jordon Ibe patronise the same barbers.

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EPA

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KICK-OFF

Liverpool get us back under way.

Steven Naismith has done a George North. It looked like he was coming off twice during that first half but he has emerged for the second half. All set?

As we mentioned earlier, both of these sides remain in the Europa League so there is the outside chance of another Merseyside derby to come this season.

That would spice up the Europa final wouldn't it?

Wage calculator: Global footballers v you

BBC

Did you know Liverpool striker Mario Balotelli's yearly salary is equivalent to the cost of 64,010 Liverpool replica shirts with 'Balotelli' printed on the back. And Balotelli earns 82 times more than England women's captain Steph Houghton, who is reportedly on £50,000 a year.

Global football stars earn some of the highest wages in the world. Cristiano Ronaldo's contract at Real Madrid earns him around €350,000 (£265,000) each week, But how much do you get paid compared with a top footballer? Use our calculator - part of the BBC's A Richer World season - to find out here.

Have your say - lines are open

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BBC Radio 5 live

Lines are now open for BBC Radio 5 live's phone-in programme 606. Robbie Savage and Darren Fletcher are coming to you from 19:00 GMT this evening, following the conclusion of the rugby.

Call 0500 909 693, text 85058, or it's @bbc606 on Twitter.

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Paul Collins: I don't get it. Why pay £28 million for Romelu Lukaku - A STRIKER - then have him most of the time on the right wing? What a waste.

Adam: Captain Gerrard and Captain-elect Henderson have both been pretty poor. They need to stand up and be counted.

Alistair Lowe: Feel Liverpool missed a trick with Lucas injury, a chance to get Ibe further up by putting on Markovic and Steven Gerrard dropping back.

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DR Congo finish third at Africa Cup of Nations

BBC Africa's Nick Cavell at Malabo: "The third-place game at the Malabo stadium passed off without any sign of a repeat of the problems that marred Thursday's semi-final at the same venue.

"Before kick-off there were a lot more police visible around the stadium complex and 30 minutes before kick-off there only around 200 fans in the stadium. The number slowly increased to between 3,000 and 4,000 during the first-half and they did their best to lift the atmosphere.

"The black and yellow helicopter that tried to intimidate the fans on Thursday was here again but thankfully much higher above the stadium. Those fans who did come were vociferous in their support of an Equatorial Guinea side who seemed calmer and more composed on the pitch and created more chances. And even in losing the crowd didn't show the same anger as on Thursday and instead showed massive appreciation for their heroes who have defied the odds to finish fourth."

Is Daniel Sturridge about to come on for Liverpool? The forward is warming up with relish during the half-time interval.

AFP

Lawro's predictions

Taking on Lawro this week is Salford punk poet John Cooper Clarke, whose prediction for tonight's game deserves an award for being marvellously specific.

John's prediction: "The Toffees against the Mickey Mousers! Whose park are they at? Everton's? I think that will be a low-score draw, and Liverpool are going to have one disallowed in the third minute of the second half. 1-1"

Check out the rest of this week's predictions here.

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Dan: Raheem Sterling, Jordan Ibe, Philippe Coutinho behind Daniel Sturridge! Could be an amazing frontline for Liverpool in the next couple of years. Pace, skill and some dance moves judging by Instagram!

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Former Liverpool midfielder David Thompson, BBC Radio Merseyside

"There has been a great intensity to the game but Everton have looked comfortable. They are squeezing Liverpool and making them over-play, and the Reds have not been able to break or counter-attack. They've simply been nullified."

Reuters

Ex-Everton winger Ronny Goodlass, BBC Radio Merseyside

"Everton have enjoyed possession but neither side have fashioned many chances. But I've been disappointed with Lukaku and Mirallas, because they need to show their quality. Liverpool's back three are there for the taking, and players like Mirallas should take them on."

Phil McNulty

BBC Sport chief football writer

"Lots of noise and endeavour but not too many chances apart from that brilliant effort from Liverpool's Jordon Ibe that struck the post, Everton manager Roberto Martinez will be pleased that his tactics have kept Liverpool at bay but his own side must create more."

HALF-TIME

Ross Barkley has been waiting to come on for Steven Naismith, who has not been 100% since feeling that earlier twinge, for the last five minutes but Barkley has sat back down now. I guess they are waiting until half-time.

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That is a brilliant effort Jim!

"I do remember, I played in it"

One you may have missed from earlier here -a BBC reporter unwittingly asked a former Liverpool goalkeeper for his memories of a 1967 derby game with Everton. He was actually talking to Tommy Lawrence, who played in goal for Liverpool for over a decade, and appeared in that very game.

Jim, Chester: On the reporter interviewing Liverpool 'keeper - My wife isn't into football but she worked at Aberdeen when she was younger, and once tried to sell Alex McLeish a ticket to his own testimonial.

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Liverpool win a corner late in the first half. The delivery is drab though and well cleared away.

There is an element of both sides cancelling each other out now. Joe Allen is forced into defensive action to stop Kevin Mirallas out on the right and the home side want a corner. Not given. We're sleepwalking to half-time.

YELLOW CARD

That's a proper derby tackle! James McCarthy is late on Philippe Coutinho on the halfway line, and is swiftly booked for his troubles.

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Tim Somers: Why would you ever buy Lazar Markovic if you have someone like Jordon Ibe in your squad?

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Ex-Everton winger Ronny Goodlass, BBC Radio Merseyside

"Liverpool have got themselves slowly back into this game and are enjoying a lot more possession, with Raheem Sterling and Philippe Coutinho seeing a lot more of the ball and playing nice one-twos in and around the area."

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Half an hour gone. Plenty of endeavour but only the one real effort of note, Jordon Ibe smashing the post from range.

Excellent play from James McCarthy in the Everton midfield to wrestle the ball back and send Kevin Mirallas in down the right. He has two men in space but his cross is poor, hitting the first defender. Another good opening wasted for the hosts.

Former Liverpool midfielder David Thompson, BBC Radio Merseyside

"Jordon Ibe was within an inch of becoming a derby legend!"

HITS THE WOODWORK

What a strike! Jordon Ibe introduces himself to the Merseyside derby in style, running from deep before letting off a shot which rockets off the post from 25 yards!

A cracking hit. Brilliantly done.

Former Liverpool midfielder David Thompson, BBC Radio Merseyside

"This is a bit of a chess match, but Everton are coming out on top at the moment. They look like they suit their tactics and formation more than Liverpool do."

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Some baffled faces on the Everton bench. We don't know what Steven Naismith has done but he's limping his way to the sidelines now. He's back on for now.

Ex-Everton winger Ronny Goodlass, BBC Radio Merseyside

"That's not just a half-chance for Steven Naismith, there. That was a great chance. If he'd chested down that ball in from Seamus Coleman he would have been well inside the box with only Simon Mignolet to beat."

Emre Can misreads a header - and it drops for Steven Naismith! Ah again he can't quite gather it in. And the Scot has hurt himself in the process somehow. Tweaked a knee?

Because Gerrard's worth it

Lewis, after three minutes, speculated that Steven Gerrard has only ever had the one haircut throughout his career.

Well, he was rocking something of a fringe during his 1998 debut:

Empics

And then a short crop - and some wrap-around shades - during his early England career:

Empics

But basically Lewis, you're right.

Everton get their fans off their seats - if anybody's sitting down - with some fast play on the edge of the box. Steven Naismith is able to get a snapshot off which almost ends up at Romelu Lukaku's feet. A game of almosts, nearlies and maybes.

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Lee, Kent: A lot of my friends are Derby fans and have hailed Jordon Ibe as the future of Liverpool. Big test for the youngster today and a gamble from Brendan Rodgers. Having said that he'll get the winner now!

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Everton straight down the other end and Steven Naismith almost gets in - but Joe Allen makes a fine saving tackle. Not much finesse or composure on display so far but plenty of up-and-at-'em from both sides.

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Ahmer Murad: Jordon Ibe isn't going to let the occasion faze him. Looking confident going forward.

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Almost for Jordon Ibe! Raheem Sterling shoots on the left of the box, it deflects across goal and appears to be rolling nicely into the path of Ibe, but Joel spreads himself well in the Everton goal to shut him out.

Former Liverpool midfielder David Thompson, BBC Radio Merseyside

"Everton look like they have their tactics spot-on at the moment. They look strong in the middle of the park and keep forcing Philippe Coutinho out wide, where he's not nearly so dangerous.

"And to be honest, I think Lucas shouldn't have played. He should have been 100% certain he could last the game. To come off after 20-25 minutes is poor, a bit selfish from Lucas."

SUBSTITUTION

A very early change then as Joe Allen replaces the stricken Lucas. Brendan Rodgers shakes his head as the Welshman enters the field - I recall Allen missing a sitter in the derby last sason.

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Phil McNulty

BBC Sport chief football writer at Goodison Park

"Not much time to catch the breath here but one or two promising signs from Everton manager Roberto Martinez's tactical tweak as Kevin Mirallas, posted on the right flank, has given Liverpool defender Mamadou Sakho plenty to think about in the opening stages."

PA

Lucas picks up the first knock of the derby - the Brazilian makes his way off and he's sitting down in fact. That could well be that for the midfielder.

Clumsy from Emre Can, who has many qualities but grace would not be one. He falls over the ball and ends up out of play. The pace has just dipped now as the visitors try to gain control of the ball.

GREAT SAVE!

Steven Gerrard takes the free-kick, he gets plenty of dip on it but Joel Robles watches it all the way and pushes over the bar. First effort of the day.

PA

Gareth Barry with a Gareth Barry sort of tackle - late. Free-kick for Liverpool in a good spot. Steven Gerrard over the ball...

Where are you going Joel? The Everton keeper comes into no man's land chasing a long ball forwards which Raheem Sterling was always going to get to first. Joel is neither her nor there, Sterling is wide on the left and wastefully drags a shot into the side-netting. He had men in space to his right. Greedy.

Horrible shot from Seamus Coleman spins off his boot and away as Roberto Martinez bellows instructions from the dugout. On the Liverpool bench, Daniel Sturridge is behind Brendan Rodgers. Is he fit? We shall see.

Mamadou Sakho tries to dribble out of defence for Liverpool - not on derby day you don't. He is hounded by both Steven Naismith and Kevin Mirallas and is lucky to be rescued by the referee. Didn't look much of a foul.

The sides can't play at this pace for 90 minutes, that's for sure. There would be casualties. Someone has to have a breather. Jordon Ibe almost gets in behind the Everton defence but the pass is slightly overhit. Everton break and Romelu Lukaku's duff touch brings it to an end. The giant Belgian is spending time out wide.

AFP

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Lewis Wilson: Stevie G. 17 years, 701 games, two FA Cups, three League Cups, 31 Merseyside derbies... one haircut.

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Former Liverpool midfielder David Thompson, BBC Radio Merseyside

"Steven Gerrard thrives on derby day. He loves it, he's immense and he's so influential at Liverpool. I'm sure even if he had a torn hamstring he'd have gone out there and played today."

Flowing move from Liverpool from deep on the right to wide left, Alberto Moreno cuts the ball back to Raheem Sterling inside the area and his low drive is well blocked. Electric tempo so far.

Ex-Everton winger Ronny Goodlass, BBC Radio Merseyside

"Liverpool dominate through retaining the ball, so that is something Everton will have to combat. But Liverpool's back three are vulnerable - Martin Skrtel can look awful and Emre Can is a midfield player. So get at that back line and they can be beaten. Everton need to play aggressively in front of this full house - they need to get ball to the likes of Romelu Lukaku in order to put pressure on Liverpool."

Former Aston Villa striker Dion Dublin

BBC Final Score

"Liverpool are just starting to find the form they are capable of. They have rediscovered that little bit of spark and speed and are breaking at pace again. Daniel Sturridge not starting is a huge surprise for me though. You want him scoring goals."

Everton win an early free-kick, at the 'Gary Mac end' and a dangerous delivery in is well cleared by Emre Can.

Former Liverpool midfielder David Thompson, BBC Radio Merseyside

"This is a game Liverpool need to win if they are to get into the top four, come the end of the season. Results haven't gone their way today, but the pitch looks perfect and the atmosphere is incredible. What more could you ask for on derby day?"

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KICK-OFF

Tremendous noise at Goodison Park as Everton get us under way.

All the reaction

We are focussed on the Merseyside derby here but all of the other Premier League reaction is housed in this page here.

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It's already been an excellent and intense day in the Premier League. But what now in the late game?

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Jordon Ibe goes from Derby to the derby. Big start for the youngster after impressing during his loan spell at Derby County. No Leighton Baines for Everton tonight, he's injured so Bryan Oviedo is at left-back.

I wonder who will be on penalty duty if the home side get a spot-kick?

Phil McNulty

BBC Sport chief football writer

"Predictably raucous atmosphere inside Goodison Park. Last season's Merseyside derby here at Goodison Park was a wonderful classic that finished 3-3. Something similar would be very welcome.

"Liverpool have gathered real momentum in recent weeks and Everton arrested a poor and indifferent spell with a crucial win at Crystal Palace last weekend. Can Roberto Martinez's side build on that?"

"If you know your history!" booms out at Goodison Park. It's a cracking atmosphere for sure. Steven Gerrard is his nonplussed self in the tunnel. A few nervous looks between the sides as they emerge to Z Cars...

£2,000 ticket for Gerrard's final home game

What does £2,000 buy you these days? A decent holiday abroad, a second-hand car, a new bathroom..a ticket to Steven Gerrard's last league home game for Liverpool.

According to the Liverpool Echo, the cost on one website for the 16 May match against Crystal Palace is as high as £1,985.56 for a seat at Anfield.

The report adds that there were also four tickets priced online at £1,500 as well as dozens of others for between £400 and £1,300 on various websites. Whether Liverpool are still in the hunt for a Champions League spot or not, Gerrard's Anfield farewell is set to be the hottest ticket in town.

AFP

BBC Radio Merseyside

Everton frontman Steven Naismith: "These are the games all players want to play in. These derbies are part of the reason why you sign for Everton Football Club."

BBC Radio Merseyside

Liverpool goalkeeper Simon Mignolet: "This is another 90 minutes to be played. No-one will find this a hard game to get up for. I played in derbies for Sunderland, and those were hostile, but I've always enjoyed playing in big games which are full of passion. It's enjoyable to have the spotlight on you."

Former Everton boss Howard Kendall takes his seat, as does Roy Keane. We are almost go for kick-off.

'Remember the game? I was in goal lad!'

BBC

The stuff of dreams for a BBC reporter. Watch this great clip as Stuart Flinders unwittingly asked a former Liverpool goalkeeper for his memories from a derby game with Everton.

Flinders was asking people on the street in Liverpool if they remembered the 1967 match at Goodison Park.

He was actually talking to Tommy Lawrence, who played in goal for Liverpool for over a decade, and appeared in that very game.

Great scenes. Almost as good as asking the Fonz about the Heathrow expansion...

Due a goal?

Other

Will Aaron Lennon break his long scoring drought? Everton's on-loan signing from Tottenham will be a super-sub if he does after being named on the bench. "I did consider starting him because he has looked really sharp in training," says Toffees boss Roberto Martinez. "The problem is his match fitness and I'd rather see him finish the game than start."

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Michael Powell: Massive call by Brendan Rodgers to start Jordon Ibe. Fresh legs definitely needed after Wednesday though, so here's hoping it pays off.

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Daniel Sturridge is on the bench for Liverpool this evening but there are reports that he has left the warm-up early accompanied by a Liverpool physio. Another setback for the England man?

Other

BBC Radio Merseyside

Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers: "I can only talk about our momentum, not Everton's. We're playing well and the balance of the team is really good. I'm happy with how it's going now, considering where we were earlier in the season. But in these games form can go out of the window, because you play with a different sort of emotion. But at the moment, as a team we are operating at a really good level."

100 up for Rodgers

EPA

Brendan Rodgers says he is desperate to bring silverware to Anfield as he reaches his 100th league game in charge of Liverpool. The Reds have won 53 and drawn 24 of his 99 top-flight games in charge since taking over in the summer of 2012.

Liverpool have yet to win a trophy under Rodgers but the former Swansea manager believes the club have moved forward under his leadership.

"The first two and a half years have been a wonderful experience," Rodgers tells the Liverpool Echo. "From when I came in to now, the club has moved forward. Now we need to rubber stamp that identity by getting some silverware."

"Defensively, Everton have been found wanting"

Former Everton winger Kevin Kilbane

Football Focus

"John Stones reads the game so well. When Everton don't have him in their defence they look so much poorer, a little disjointed. Sylvain Distin hasn't been in good form and Phil Jagielka has looked off, as has Antolin Alcaraz. Defensively Everton have been found wanting, and they need a settled back four.

"Aaron Lennon, who's just joined the Toffees on loan, is only 27 - he has good years ahead of him. He has good pace and ability, and hopefully he'll fit into that Everton side and do well."

BBC Radio Merseyside

Everton boss Roberto Martinez: "I think everyone benefits when a club is able to bring in a player of the pedigree of someone like Aaron Lennon. You can see that everyone in the dressing room now has a spring in their step. He's a player who's put a smile on the faces of all the other players. Not that he smiled in his photos when he joined us! That's something I blame the photographer for, by the way."

It looks like a punishingly cold night at Goodison Park, visible breath from the players as they go through their warm-ups and the stands remain relatively empty as the fans huddle in the concourse. Or the boozers.

If anyone was out at 11am to get 'ready' for this game they may be struggling now...

BBC Sport chief football writer Phil McNulty at Goodison

"Plenty of focus on Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard in his final Premier League Merseyside derby - but some interesting team news as well. Everton have been hit by a real blow, with Leighton Baines sidelined by injury. Bryan Oviedo comes in but there is good news with the return of James McCarthy after a long-term hamstring injury.

"Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers makes the bold selection of 19-year-old attacker Jordon Ibe. The youngster, a big success on loan at Derby County this season, comes in for Lazar Markovic."

"Big future for Stones"

Former Liverpol defender Mark Lawrenson

Football Focus

Reuters

"You can see John Stones is natural footballer. He could easily play in midfield for me but you don't want him there because he is so good in defence. He will only get better in that position because a lot of it is about experience. He reads the game for fun, he brings the ball out with both feet, he can pick out a pass, he is quick and makes it all look so easy. I think he has a really big future in the game."

It's not that friendly

It was once called the "friendly derby" but Everton and Liverpool fans are being warned by police that they cannot sit together tonight. Merseyside Police took legal action to try to bring forward the kick-off time but the application was withdrawn after Everton agreed to increase segregation for the match, which traditionally sees rival supporters sit together.

Police have threatened to eject anyone found breaking the rule. The move marks a significant change in the force's attitude to the Merseyside derby.

"Rodgers has found a formula for his squad"

Former Tottenham striker Garth Crooks

Final Score

"Brendan Rodgers has found a formula for his squad of players. And now he has Raheem Sterling scoring goals and Daniel Sturridge back. Where could Liverpool end up? If they can get three points against Everton then it puts Roberto Martinez under a lot of pressure.

"But you cannot discount Everton. Don't underestimate them. They are very professional and have dug out results in recent weeks. If I'm honest, I think it'll be a draw today."

In-form Liverpool

The full-time results from the 15:00 GMT games are in and Liverpool can move two points behind fourth-placed Manchester United with victory at Goodison Park. The Reds have won five of the last six league games. Can Brendan Rodgers's side secure a Champions League spot?

Former Everton defender Phil Neville: Classy touch from the Toffees with the Hillsborough tribute plaque at Goodson. Well done!

Everton's Hillsborough tribute

@LFC

There may be little love lost between the teams on the pitch but ahead of kick-off Everton have unveiled a plaque at Goodison Park in memory of the 96 Liverpool fans who died at Hillsborough.

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Simon Jennings: Exciting to see young Jordon Ibe starting for Liverpool, hope he makes an impression. Hot prospect!

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100 not out for Lukaku

PA

He is aged just 21 yet Everton forward Romelu Lukaku is making his 100th Premier League appearance today. The Belgian has 10 goals to his name already this season - one more than at this stage last term. "He's in a moment where he is enjoying his football and is really infectious in the way we want to play," says Toffees boss Roberto Martinez. "I'm very pleased in the way he has been adapting in a demanding season in different roles."

Inside the Reds dressing room

@LFC

Liverpool FC: A glimpse inside the Liverpool dressing room at Goodison Park ahead of kick off.

"Legend" Gerrard doesn't like derbies?

Former Liverpol defender Mark Lawrenson

Football Focus

"Yesterday I saw Steve Gerrard quoted as saying he doesn't like playing in derbies and to be honest I don't know many people who do, but he has a fantastic record in them. This will be his last at Liverpool and he has been Mr Liverpool, producing so many fantastic moments to lift the side when hey needed it. I still think his passing is as good as anyone's in the league. I very rarely use the word legend, but he really is a legend at Anfield."

Team News

Two changes for Everton from the side that started the 1-0 win at Crystal Palace on 31 January. Left-back Leighton Baines and midfielder Aiden McGeady are replaced by Bryan Oviedo and James McCarthy, who returns after six weeks out with a hamstring injury. New signing Aaron Lennon is on the bench.

Liverpool make three changes from the side that started the FA Cup win at Bolton in midweek, with 19-year-old winger Jordon Ibe in the team. Midfielder Jordan Henderson and Lucas Leiva are also back.

Everton XI: Joel, Oviedo, Jagielka, Stones, Coleman, Besic, Barry, McCarthy, Mirallas, Naismith, Lukaku.

Liverpool XI: Mignolet, Can, Skrtel, Sakho, Lucas, Henderson, Gerrard, Moreno, Ibe, Coutinho, Sterling.

MOTD's Steve Wilson at Goodison Park

"The last thing Steven Gerrard will want to do over his final four months in English football is go on some kind of extended farewell tour, especially as he is usually greeted by that song at some point when playing away from Anfield.

"But it's hardly likely to escape people's notice that this will be his last Merseyside derby before moving to Los Angeles.

"Gerrard's ninth career club game was the derby - he played at right-back - and his 701st will be the derby. In between there have been 31 more games against the Blues, with 10 goals and two red cards."

BREAKING TEAM NEWS

Nineteen-year-old winger Jordon Ibe starts for Liverpool. Striker Daniel Sturridge starts from the substitutes bench for the third straight game. New signing Aaron Lennon is on the bench for Everton. Defender Leighton Baines is injured.

224 not out

Getty Images

It's one of the most passionate fixtures in the football calendar yet the 224th meeting between Liverpool and Everton is like a good Saturday night curry. Extra spicy.

The two clubs could potentially still meet in the Europa League final on 27 May in Warsaw, but this is the last time Steven Gerrard will lead the Reds out in the top-flight against the Toffees.

It's also the 100th Premier League game of Brendan Rodgers's Anfield reign. A perfect time for the Blue half of Merseyside to record a first win over their neighbours from across Stanley Park in nine attempts?

Gerrard's Mersey derby farewell

In his previous 29 Merseyside league derbies, Steven Gerrard has been kicked where it hurts.

Getty Images

Picked up a red card...or two.

Getty Images

And found the net nine times to leave Everton singing the blues after helping Liverpool to 16 victories.

Getty Images

Little wonder Reds boss Brendan Rodgers believes Everton's fans cannot wait to see the back of the Los Angeles-bound midfielder. But will the 34-year-old bid a triumphant farewell as he leads Liverpool out at Goodison Park for what's likely to be the final time? Or will Everton banish their recent poor form against their neighbours and wreck Gerrard's final top-flight appearance against the Toffees for Liverpool before he heads to America.