Liverpool v Everton preview: Reds boss matt Beard can’t wait for derby cup clash

The close-season has been one of significant upheaval for the Reds, with Beard shipping out 12 players and bringing in 11.

And with the likes of former England captain Becky Easton and US international Whitney Engel bolstering their ranks, Beard is keen for his side to kick on.

He said: “Everyone’s looking forward to it. We’re live on telly too, so that’s going to put a little bit more pressure on us and Everton.”

Liverpool have finished bottom of the table in each of the last two Women’s Super League seasons, but Beard hopes his reshaped side will perform better this year.

“I think we’ve built a side that on its day, can beat anyone, so the cup competitions might be a bit of a bonus for us.”

Elsewhere Bristol Academy host Lincoln while Doncaster Belles take on Chelsea.