Liverpool hopes to redeem itself during the visit to Everton after the painful elimination from the FA Cup. Arne Slot is looking forward to his debut in the Merseyside Derby. "People tell me it's fantastic."
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Liverpool will visit Everton on Wednesday, February 12, at 20:30 for a highly anticipated Merseyside Derby at Goodison Park.
This fixture, one of the most historic and intense rivalries in English football, was originally scheduled for December but had to be postponed due to Storm Darragh, which brought extreme weather conditions, making it impossible to play. Now, with both teams getting a second chance to face off, the stakes are even higher. For Liverpool, the match represents an opportunity to regain momentum after their painful elimination from the FA Cup, while Everton will be eager to continue their resurgence under new management.
The Merseyside Derby is always a special occasion, carrying decades of history, drama, and unforgettable moments. It is the longest-running top-flight derby in English football, with both teams competing at the highest level since 1962. Unlike many other city rivalries, Liverpool and Everton share a unique dynamic, with families and friends often divided in their allegiances. However, when the two clubs meet on the pitch, there is no love lost, and the atmosphere at Goodison Park is expected to be electrifying.
Ahead of the match, Liverpool manager Arne Slot addressed the media, making it clear that the team's recent FA Cup exit was unacceptable. "Losing to Plymouth is unacceptable," he stated firmly in his pre-match press conference. The Dutchman was quick to dismiss the notion that having fewer matches to play could be seen as an advantage, insisting that a club like Liverpool thrives on competition. "A wise man once told me that losing a game never brings anything good. I completely agree. We would have preferred to play more matches." Slot's comments reflect the relentless winning mentality that Liverpool has built over the years, and he will be expecting a strong response from his squad.
This Merseyside Derby will also be a historic occasion as it marks Liverpool’s final league visit to Goodison Park before Everton’s move to their new stadium at Bramley-Moore Dock. Goodison Park, which has been Everton’s home since 1892, has witnessed countless memorable clashes between these two teams, and Wednesday’s match will add another chapter to its legacy. "That adds an extra reason for the atmosphere to be even better than usual. People tell me it's fantastic," Slot said, acknowledging the significance of the occasion.
However, the Liverpool manager will be facing a different Everton than the one he initially expected to encounter in December. The Toffees have since undergone a managerial change, with Sean Dyche being replaced by David Moyes. The return of Moyes, who previously managed Everton from 2002 to 2013, has revitalized the team, and they have shown clear signs of improvement in recent weeks.
Under Moyes, Everton has demonstrated greater defensive resilience and tactical discipline, earning impressive results against top opponents. "They got impressive results away at Manchester City and Arsenal. I know David has won three of his four matches so far. They are in a much better position now than they were a few months ago," Slot noted, emphasizing the challenge that awaits Liverpool. Everton’s recent form has lifted them nine points above the relegation zone, a significant improvement from their struggles earlier in the season.
The Merseyside Derby is never predictable, and Slot understands the importance of getting off to a strong start in such an intense atmosphere. "In away games like this, it’s important not to fall behind in the first ten to fifteen minutes," he stressed. "That’s the worst thing that can happen because the fans will push their players even further." Goodison Park has long been known for its intimidating environment, and Everton’s supporters will undoubtedly play a crucial role in trying to disrupt Liverpool’s rhythm.
On the injury front, Liverpool has received a mix of good and bad news. The potential return of Trent Alexander-Arnold is a significant boost for the team, as his creativity and distribution from the back have been sorely missed. "Trent participated in part of training. We will assess him today and then make a decision," Slot revealed. However, the absence of Joe Gomez is a setback. "Joe Gomez has the same injury as last time. We are still evaluating him, but he will definitely not be available against Everton."
As the countdown to kickoff continues, anticipation is building for what promises to be another thrilling chapter in the history of the Merseyside Derby. Liverpool will be determined to bounce back and maintain their push for silverware, while Everton will be looking to further solidify their resurgence under Moyes. With passion, pride, and local bragging rights on the line, Wednesday night at Goodison Park is set to deliver yet another unforgettable battle between these two fierce rivals.
Updated: 11:22, 11 Feb 2025
