Liverpool manager Arne Slot was one of four individuals sent off by referee Michael Oliver as the final Merseyside derby at Goodison Park descended into chaos. Details have now emerged regarding what Slot said to the official, Virgil van Dijk’s reaction, and the automatic ban the Dutchman will face.
Liverpool had been on course to extend their Premier League lead to nine points after goals from Alexis Mac Allister and Mo Salah overturned Beto’s early strike. However, a stoppage-time equalizer from James Tarkowski meant they had to settle for a seven-point lead instead. The real controversy, though, came after the final whistle.
The tension began when Everton’s Abdoulaye Doucoure provoked Liverpool fans at full-time, triggering a furious response from Curtis Jones. Both players were subsequently sent off following the confrontation.
The drama escalated further when Slot aggressively shook Oliver’s hand, prompting an immediate red card. His assistant, Sipke Hulshoff, was also dismissed. Premier League rules meant that neither Slot nor Hulshoff could attend the post-match press conference, and both will serve a one-match touchline ban for Liverpool’s upcoming game against Wolves.
It has now been revealed that Slot questioned Oliver’s decision, saying, “You gave me a red for that?!” His initial exchange with the referee was not captured on camera, but later footage confirmed his reaction.
Van Dijk expressed his frustration with Oliver’s officiating, stating, “I think the ref didn’t have the game under control.” He also criticized Doucoure’s actions, believing the midfielder was deliberately provoking Liverpool fans, which led to the altercation with Jones.
Former Liverpool midfielder Steve McManaman reflected on the chaotic conclusion to the final Merseyside derby at Goodison Park, describing it as an intense, passionate game with multiple dismissals. He criticized Doucoure for taunting Liverpool fans when he could have celebrated with Everton supporters instead.
In other Liverpool news, the club has reportedly made contact with former Manchester United left-back Alvaro Fernandez Carreras as they look to strengthen their defense. Additionally, financial experts suggest that tying Mohamed Salah to a new contract could save the club over £70 million, especially with Adidas potentially playing a role in securing the deal. Meanwhile, Jamie Carragher believes Liverpool could have an edge over Arsenal in their pursuit of Newcastle striker Alexander Isak this summer.
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