After a 5-1 victory against Bournemouth last time out, we have travelled to Merseyside for what is our first fixture outside of London this season.

Everton are unbeaten in the top flight this term and are never an easy proposition to face on home soil. Yet Alonso has challenged his side to show the same qualities that enabled us to impressively overcome the Cherries.

‘We needed a win [last weekend] and now we need to keep going, repeat the right things, and always improve game by game.’

The one alteration to the starting XI is Jorrel Hato’s introduction for Pep Chavarria. It was an enforced switch.

‘[Pep had] a little problem yesterday; we are not certain of the situation yet because it was late. Jorrel is fit and has played there, so it’s just that change.’

Alonso’s selection sees Moises Caicedo, who wears the captain’s armband, line up in midfield once again by Jordan Henderson, who netted twice against Bournemouth.

It's a partnership Alonso believes provides the Blues with several different qualities.

He said: ‘We have enough options in midfield, with Romeo (Lavia), (Valentin) Barco – they have played this season – and now we have Moi and Hendo back.

‘It was a good first day with them playing together in the middle; they gave balance, personality and stability to the rest of the team.

'They mix very well in terms of qualities and personalities, so that’s very important for any team. They did really well and today we’ll need another big one in this stadium, against a tough opponent.’