Injuries definitely played their part in Liverpool’s bad luck, but Klopp was not immune to criticism, with comments regarding tactical shortcomings this season. Lampard’s replacement delivered an excellent win for his debut game in early February, and commented that there was ‘no lack of effort’ from the Toffies during the Derby, despite the result. Everton’s most recent Derby win was in 2021 during lockdown, but since there were no fans present, Liverpool have not faced an at-home derby defeat in front of a crowd since 1999.
The Derby was expected to reignite the rivalry between Dyche and Klopp, after the two bosses clashed in 2018, and then again in 2021. The former Burnley manager ended Liverpool’s 68-game unbeaten run in 2021, with a 1-0 victory. Dyche was asked ahead of the Derby if he was ready to renew his rivalry with Klopp, but responded that there was no “renewing it. It’s just two managers playing against each other’s teams. There was nothing in that [incident from 2021]”. When asked if he had any sympathy for Liverpool’s losing streak, Dyche responded, “there’s no sympathy in football. I can empathize. You have an understanding of others. He certainly doesn’t want or need my sympathy – trust me.” Liverpool, who were last season’s Champions League finalists, seem to be struggling to make it to the top five this year, and Everton are dancing dangerously close to the relegation zone. Although there were no signs of resentment at the recent Derby, the memorable bust-up will make this rivalry one to watch.