Jamie Carragher wasn't holding back when he spotted Liverpool's team sheet for Sunday's Merseyside derby.

The Sky Sports pundit raised questions about one specific player's inclusion in Arne Slot's starting XI, admitting he wasn't convinced the individual was ready for such a high-stakes fixture. It's the kind of honest assessment we've come to expect from Carra, never one to sugarcoat his views on team selection.

Slot made four changes from the side that stumbled to defeat against PSG in midweek, bringing back Mo Salah, Cody Gakpo and Andy Robertson amongst others. The alterations suggest the Dutch manager recognises the importance of getting this one right, even if it means rotating after European exertions.

Carragher's concerns highlight the delicate balance managers face when selecting teams for derbies. Form, fitness and psychology all come into play when the city's bragging rights are on the line. His doubts about one player's readiness could prove prophetic or completely wide of the mark.

Either way, Slot's selection will be judged by results rather than pundit predictions. The proof, as always, will be in the derby pudding.

Original reporting by Empire of the Kop.