Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp admits he would rather not have to praise Everton ahead of the 237th Merseyside derby but could not argue with their start to the season.

For the first time since September 1989 the Toffees head into the cross-city clash above their neighbours in the table as their 100 per cent record has them top of the Premier League going into the game, three points ahead of the Reds.

And even though the Toffees have not won any meeting between the two for a decade – Saturday is the exact 10th anniversary of their last victory – Klopp dismissed that record.

Klopp will again be without first-choice goalkeeper Alisson Becker, who missed the defeat at Villa in which stand-in Adrian was at fault for the opening goal that set the tone for a sobering night.

The Reds boss was able to offer an encouraging update on the Brazil international’s recovery from a shoulder injury sustained in training which looks set to keep him out until next month.

“Very, very positive with Ali. Looks really good. Made big steps. I don’t have a time frame but it looks really good,” Klopp said.