Arne Slot Believes Liverpool Players Will be Fired Up for ‘Unique’ Encounter Against Everton

This Sunday, Liverpool will visit Everton’s new stadium for the very first time. The Toffees are currently enjoying a solid run of form, while the Reds have just faced disappointment after their elimination from the Champions League at the hands of PSG.

Slot, in his morning preview, remarked: “It’s always a unique match, regardless of whether it’s the 60th or not. However, hosting the first one at a new stadium makes it even more significant.”

“They are in great form at the moment. Any added intensity can enhance the significance of the game. It’s always a special occasion for us as much as it is for them.”

Currently positioned fifth in the Premier League standings and just three points shy of the top four, Slot acknowledges the importance of not suffering any “slip-ups” this Sunday.

“Losing to (Manchester) City or PSG was not part of our plan. That’s always the goal. You never want to make mistakes going into a match,” Slot remarked.

“It feels a bit like a mini-league. Every club gears up against those nearby them on the table. Our focus right now isn’t on Arsenal, but rather on the teams directly around us. The priority is the upcoming match against Everton.”

“It’s crucial to know the schedule. I understand we’ve had a tough time after European outings and away fixtures, especially with some matches kicking off at 12:30 on Saturdays following midweek games, which is challenging for any team. However, we played on Tuesday and have until Sunday for the next match.”

Recovery from PSG

Liverpool faced defeats both home and away against PSG, losing 2-0 on each occasion, resulting in a comprehensive 4-0 aggregate in the Champions League quarter-finals. Nevertheless, Slot is optimistic that his squad has mentally bounced back from this setback.

He reflected: “Our players demonstrated considerable character against PSG. Being the superior team against them is a tough task, let alone playing three matches in just a week. Many of my players achieved record physical outputs, which indicates their readiness and strength.”

“I expect the same intensity on Sunday. The atmosphere at Everton didn’t impact me last season, though some referee decisions did. It’s not the stadium that generates noise; it’s the fans. Their supporters will be loud, just as ours will be. Ultimately, it’s the players who determine the outcome, but the crowd certainly influences them.”

Regarding the intensity of Tuesday night’s match, Slot added: “I don’t anticipate that it will hinder us. We managed well against Fulham, although the Anfield factor is something to consider. The fans make a vast difference when we aim to replicate the aggressive style we played against PSG. We took risks in Paris, where PSG had several opportunities in front of our goal, yet we managed to contain them at Anfield.”

Ekitike injury setback

Slot also addressed the Achilles injury sustained by Hugo Ekitike, which could keep him sidelined for up to nine months. The injury occurred during Liverpool’s loss to PSG at Anfield.

Slot expressed: “He hasn’t undergone surgery yet. It’s devastating for him, especially joining a new club and making an immediate impact. Playing against your former team in a Champions League quarter-final is significant, especially with so much potential ahead for him this summer. My initial thoughts are with him as he faces such a lengthy absence, missing out on countless special moments.”

“He’s not the first, nor will he be the last, player to encounter such challenges early in their career. There are many examples of players returning even stronger.”

Summer transfer plans

In relation to recent reports about Liverpool needing to sell key players to fund transfers this summer, Slot was questioned regarding the club’s approach.

With prominent names such as Mohamed Salah and Andrew Robertson potentially leaving, finding suitable replacements will be necessary. However, Slot acknowledges that some strategic manoeuvring will be essential due to Profit and Sustainability regulations.

He elaborated: “Last year, we made numerous signings, resulting in a considerable net spend of £150 million over four transfer windows. This reflects the nature of our club. We are aware that at least two players need replacing, but Kostas (Tsimikas) will be returning.”

“Our primary objective is to assess how to address Mo’s potential departure, considering whether to replace him with a like-for-like player or take a different direction entirely. Right now, it’s unlikely that many players will leave, although there’s the situation concerning Ibou’s (Konate) contract.”