Liverpool supporters group Spirit of Shankly have expressed their discontent following the police's legal challenge against the kickoff time of Saturday's Merseyside derby against Everton.

The televised clash at Goodison Park is due to get underway at 5.30pm, but the authorities are concerned that the late kickoff will increase the risk of alcohol-fuelled trouble.

The legal challenge came about at the start of the week, just five days before the clash, and the Spirit of Shankly group believe that it will disrupt the fans' travel arrangements.

"It is disappointing that the police have again sought a change, but more disappointing that such a change is being pursued at this late stage," the Liverpool Echo quotes the supporters' union as saying.

"Supporters of both sides will have made travel arrangements and plans for the day. Instead, they face uncertainty."

Everton are believed to have told the Premier League that the kickoff time should stand.