Title challengers Liverpool face relegation-threatened Everton tonight (April 24) in Jurgen Klopp’s final Merseyside derby.
The Reds make the short trip across Stanley Park knowing nothing but a win will be good enough to stay in contention in the title race, after leaders Arsenal thumped Chelsea 5-0 last night.
Klopp, who has just five matches left in charge of the Reds, said he will not miss the Merseyside derby: “The pressure is higher so why should the joy be higher?
“That kind of pressure – why would I miss that? It’s not enjoyable.”
Jota
Klopp has lost just one of those pressure derbies during his Anfield reign.
His mood was further soured by the news Diogo Jota will be out for the next two weeks after sustaining a hip injury in the weekend’s victory at Fulham.
The Portuguese forward’s absence comes at a crucial point in the season, with Liverpool needing to win their remaining games to be in contention for the title.
Jota recently returned from a lengthy spell on the sidelines, and his goal to secure the points for the Reds last time out underscored his clinical quality which Liverpool have sorely missed of late.
Supporters will hope Liverpool still have enough firepower to blow 16th placed Everton away.
The Blues have had another difficult season owing to points deductions and poor form, but took a huge step towards survival last weekend with a 2-0 victory over fellow strugglers Nottingham Forest.
Even if they are looking likely to stave off relegation once again, the opportunity to crush Klopp’s dream farewell will add plenty of additional motivation for Sean Dyche’s side.
Team news
Other than Jota, Klopp reported no further new injury concerns. Joel Matip, Thiago Alcantara, and Ben Doak remain long-term absentees.
Conor Bradley was recently ruled out for a short period, and Stefan Bajcetic is continuing his recovery with minutes for Liverpool’s u21 team.
Wednesday’s Merseyside derby kicks off at 8pm at Goodison Park.
(Featured image under agreed Alamy licence)
