Everton and Liverpool's postponed Premier League Merseyside derby has been rescheduled for February 12, which could still pose a potential problem for the Reds.
The final top-flight encounter between the two clubs was due to take place on December 7, but high winds and devastation caused by Storm Darragh led to the postponement of the contest.
Over a month later, the Premier League have confirmed that the delayed derby will be played on the evening of Wednesday, February 12, which is currently free for both clubs.
However, the first leg of the Champions League knockout round playoffs will also be played on the evenings of February 11 and February 12, and there is still a chance that the Reds could drop out of the top eight.
Arne Slot's men have been perfect in Europe so far and lead the way at the top of the 36-team table with 18 points, six clear of Borussia Dortmund in ninth place, and they will finish 12th at the very worst.
Liverpool Champions League collapse could lead to derby rescheduling
© Imago
Liverpool have not guaranteed direct progression to the last 16 just yet, though, so either the Merseyside derby or first leg of any UCL playoff might have to be rescheduled if they unexpectedly miss out on the top eight.
While that scenario is possible, it is still highly unlikely, as Liverpool need just one point from their final two matches against Lille (January 21) and PSV Eindhoven (January 29) to bypass the playoffs.
Either side of the rescheduled Merseyside derby on February 12, Liverpool will face Plymouth Argyle in the fourth round of the FA Cup on February 8, before hosting Wolverhampton Wanderers in the top flight on February 16.
Meanwhile, Everton - whose clash with Liverpool next month will be David Moyes's first Merseyside derby since his momentous return to Goodison Park - take on Bournemouth in the FA Cup on February 8 and Crystal Palace in the Premier League on February 15.
Slot's men are back in action on Tuesday night away to Nottingham Forest, one day before Moyes's Everton homecoming takes place at home to Aston Villa.
Ben Knapton
