In the lead-up to the final Merseyside derby at Goodison Park, Arne Slot called for his players to have a “cool head but not cool legs.” The Dutchman had watched last season’s derby, a 2-0 defeat for Liverpool that all but ended their title hopes, and noted how easily Everton players went to ground to win free kicks in the early stages.
“After 10 minutes the referee blew his whistle 11 times, and 10 times in favour of Everton,” he quipped. “The Liverpool players were ready to compete, but every time they touched them it was a free-kick!”
