Jordan Pickford issues a blunt “struggling” jibe at Liverpool ahead of Sunday’s historic derby. See why the Everton keeper believes the reigning champions are vulnerable as Arne Slot’s side looks to silence their rivals at the Hill Dickinson Stadium.
Liverpool take on their fierce rivals in Everton this weekend, with their goalkeeper Jordan Pickford set to play a key role once again in the Merseyside derby.
The English goalkeeper has called out Arne Slot’s side in what has been a difficult campaign.
In an interview on the Everton website, he said, “We’ve got a big game against Liverpool – the reigning champions. They’re obviously not having the best of seasons this season, but they’re still a threat.”
Chelsea and Brentford have already dropped points this weekend, making this game mean that little bit more in the Reds’ search for Champions League places.
Pickford concentrates on Liverpool clash
Liverpool beat the Toffees 2-1 when the two teams collided at Anfield in September, but in their last meeting at Everton’s ground, it was a difficult evening for the Reds.
A late equaliser from James Tarkowski was a heavy blow to the fans as they came from within inches of winning the last Merseyside derby.
This weekend will commemorate the first derby at the Hill Dickinson Stadium, so bragging rights are firmly on the line.
Pickford claims it’s a big game for him and that with them battling for European places, they are taking it one step at a time.
“It’s a game we’re looking forward to”.
He continued.
“We’re taking each game as it comes and focusing on the next game we’ve got. That’s what the manager is telling us to do – just take each game as they come.”
The pressure is on both teams this weekend as there is still much to play for, but with the Anfield outfit’s poor form is concerning, and recent form has increased pressure heading into the derby.
Reds need leaders to step up
Pickford has been at the centre of some moments in the derby that have led to the Kopites picking up three points, such as when Divock Origi scored in the last minute back in 2018.
However, he has also made some important saves which have earned them points, such as the clash at Goodison last season, and outside of the derby, he has been so important to the Toffees for several years.
Hugo Ekitike’s injury is a bitter loss for Slot’s side as the French striker has scored crucial goals, but the Reds need someone to step into a void which has been missing this season.
The games against Manchester City and Paris Saint-Germain highlighted this as they exposed areas Slot needs to improve.
Liverpool needs to be fully concentrated on this affair, like Pickford, especially with the Toffees’ much-improved form this season, making them a threat not to be taken lightly.
