Liverpool v Everton: Jurgen Klopp ‘couldn’t be less interested’ in derby record

In the run-up to the eagerly anticipated Merseyside derby between Liverpool and Everton, Jurgen Klopp, the charismatic Liverpool manager, found himself confronted with his stellar track record in these intense clashes. Klopp, who has been at the helm of Liverpool since 2015, has lost only once in 17 matches against the Toffees, securing victory 10 times. Yet, when reminded of this impressive feat, he couldn’t help but express his disinterest in dwelling on past achievements.

“It is uncomfortable when you tell me about my record,” Klopp quipped, his trademark charm shining through. “I couldn’t be less interested in what happened in the past. We aren’t thinking about this.”

Klopp’s focus is evidently on the present and the looming showdown with Everton. He acknowledged the pressure and intensity that comes with a derby match, admitting that he can’t recall ever relishing the thought of it. However, he also underlined the readiness of his squad, emphasizing that the new players shouldn’t be overwhelmed by the occasion.

In terms of the current standings, Liverpool sits comfortably in fourth place with just one defeat so far this season. Meanwhile, Everton, under the guidance of former Burnley manager Sean Dyche, has found its stride recently, winning two of their last three games and moving up to 16th place. Klopp, always respectful of the opposition, recognized Everton’s recent form, stating, “Everton are in a good moment, for three or four weeks they’ve got results.”

Dyche’s presence at Everton has added an intriguing dimension to this derby. Klopp, aware of Dyche’s reputation, drew parallels between Burnley in their prime and the challenges that Everton now presents. He knows that a Sean Dyche-led team can be a formidable opponent.

The rivalry between Liverpool and Everton is deeply rooted in history, and Klopp acknowledged the significance of the fixture. “It’s a proper derby. This is the biggest one I know. I’m still relatively new to Everton and you earn the right to have the same depth about this game; I’m learning all the time,” Dyche explained. He even reflected on a fiery encounter between himself and Klopp in January 2021, showcasing their mutual passion for the game.

Dyche emphasized that such passionate exchanges are part of football and, in his view, demonstrate a commitment to the cause. “Every manager should be passionate in what they do,” Dyche stated, dismissing any notion of a lasting grudge. In the end, both managers are united by their desire to see their teams succeed, and that’s what makes the Merseyside derby such an enthralling spectacle for fans of both Liverpool and Everton, and indeed, for football enthusiasts everywhere.

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More about Merseyside derby intensity

• Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp
• Merseyside derby record
• Current Premier League standings
• Sean Dyche at Everton
• Passionate managers Klopp and Dyche