The Merseyside derby is always one of the first fixtures every Premier League fan looks out for at the start of the season.

Saturday's meeting at Anfield has more than pride riding on it too, as Everton look to close the gap on Liverpool to just three points.

The Toffees have been in incredible form in 2017. Few would have predicted Ronald Koeman's men making a late charge for the top four when the Dutchman first took over, but it seems his project is finally starting to come together.

Liverpool have also taken great strides after finishing eighth last season.

Jurgen Klopp still has a little work to do, though, so it will certainly be interesting to see how the two sides shape up in the derby.

Ahead of the game, Jamie Carragher has picked his ultimate combined XI in the Daily Mail.

The former Reds centre-back has only gone for players available to play at Saturday lunchtime, which obviously rules out Jordan Henderson, Seamus Coleman and Adam Lallana.

It means no Daniel Sturridge either, but let's be honest, he's not getting in anyone's ultimate teams this season anyway.

Take a look how Carragher's dream team would line-up.

Simon Mignolet (Liverpool)

Nathaniel Clyne (Liverpool)

Joel Matip (Liverpool)

Phil Jagielka (Everton)

Leighton Baines (Everton)

Idrissa Gana Gueye (Everton)

Ross Barkley (Everton)

Roberto Firmino (Liverpool)

Sadio Mane (Liverpool)

Philippe Coutinho (Liverpool)

Romelu Lukaku (Everton)

It's a worrying indictment of Joel Robles that Simon Mignolet is between the sticks, given the Belgian's erratic form over the course of the season.

Carragher has generally gone for pretty established players and a 4-1-2-3 formation, but he has recognised Idrissa Gueye's impressive debut season at Goodison Park.

Liverpool could definitely do with a little help from their neighbours in defence. Of the Premier League's top half sides, only West Brom and Stoke have conceded more goals.

On the bright side, it means we should be in for an incredible game of football.

Has Carragher missed anyone out? Have your say in the comments.