LIVERPOOL manager Arne Slot expressed gratitude to Everton for their support following the tragic death of Diogo Jota in July.
Jota passed away at 28 years old in a car accident in Spain, casting a shadow over the club shortly after their Premier League title celebration.
The Portuguese forward scored his final goal in the last Merseyside derby, securing a 1-0 victory for Liverpool in April.
Ahead of Saturday’s match at Anfield, Slot highlighted the mutual respect between the rival clubs during difficult times.
He stated that Everton demonstrated profound respect following Jota’s passing, emphasising that such gestures transcend football rivalries.
Slot noted the importance of maintaining respect even amid intense competition, especially during tragedies.
Despite winning the league last season, Liverpool underwent a significant squad overhaul with a record spending of nearly 450 million pounds.
The team has shown some inconsistent performances but has won all five of their Premier League and Champions League matches with late goals.
Slot prefers analysing improvements after victories rather than dealing with losses.
He expressed confidence that new signings will adapt to the derby’s intensity due to their experience in high-pressure matches.
The Dutch coach emphasised that focus must remain on playing intensely, winning duels, and maintaining possession.
New signing Alexander Isak made his debut in Wednesday’s 3-2 win over Atletico Madrid after a 125 million pound move from Newcastle.
Slot mentioned that Isak felt physical strain after the match, having missed most of pre-season during his transfer negotiations.
Hugo Ekitike is expected to replace Isak for the upcoming derby against Everton. – AFP