Jurgen Klopp ‘s ‘perfect’ farewell has taken a killer blow after the 2-0 defeat to local rivals Everton. The Reds were second best throughout the ninety minutes at Goodison Park as Klopp’s tactics proved to be futile in their attempt to get back into the game. Defensive errors cost the Reds as goals from Jarrad Branthwaite and Dominic Calvert-Lewin sealed the deal for the hosts.
While many expected Klopp to clinch the League title in his farewell season, their most recent result virtually sealed their fate. Following the game, the German tactician came forward to apologize for his team’s performance and for losing focus at such a crucial moment in the season. The manager gave a simple explanation as to why his side came up short in the Merseyside derby.
I can only apologize for today to the people. Everyone who's with us knows how hard it is, but for others it is especially hard. We should've done better, but we didn't and that's why we didn't win. Jurgen Klopp said in a post-match press conference
Following the defeat, Liverpool are now three points adrift of Arsenal & with 2 games in hand for Manchester City, it is likely that the Reds will drop to third.
Virgil van Dijk gives damning verdict after loss in Merseyside derby
On a night where no Liverpool player can come back with his head held high, Luis Diaz was probably the Reds’ best player on the night.
After conceding two goals without reply, Liverpool effectively let go of their grip on the title. Despite there being 4 games left to play, it is unlikely that Liverpool will have another chance to top the table.
Following the disappointing result, captain Virgil van Dijk raised questions regarding his team’s desire and urge to win.
I think everyone has to look at their own performance and ask if they really gave everything. Do they really want to win the league? If we play like we did today, we have no chance of winning the title. Virgil van Dijk said in a post-match interview
Van Dijk struggled throughout the game, with defensive errors gifting Everton their first goal. The Toffees’ second goal came from a stunning header, in which Van Dijk saw Dominic Calvert-Lewin leap over him emphatically to head home the winner.
Despite the disappointing result, the Liverpool captain has urged his teammates to shift their focus to the next game and leave the loss in the past.
More must-reads: