There’ll be passion, there’ll be needle and I expect to see Ancelotti’s new improved version of Everton
was sat in my bedroom, blasting out the song, psyching myself up and getting really emotional, to be ready for such a massive game – a real derby. Did it work? Er, not really. We got battered 5-0! The only people in attendance were a few parents and one of the Everton coaches’ dog. It didn’t make any difference, of course, because it was a derby, it was a competitive game and everyone on that pitch so desperately wanted to make an impact. That’s how it will be on Sunday – it doesn’t matter that there are no fans and it doesn’t matter there will be no atmosphere. Honestly, I’ve played in a few derbies for the reserves with not that many fans and they still mattered. I’ve spoken before about the top players having a mindset where they can focus no matter what. No matter what’s at stake, no matter who’s watching. Usually, they can completely shut out the noise and pressure from fans, but, equally, they’ll be able to shut out the lack of noise and lack of fans.
It won’t be the same, especially for people watching at home – but it’s still massive, it’s still special.
Liverpool have a title they want to secure as quickly as possible. There really can be no greater motivation. Everton don’t want to lose, believe me.
There will be the same desire to get a foot into the first tackle, to compete to win that ball at all costs and let the opponent know they are in a battle.
You don’t need fans for that.
Liverpool would be stupid to think Everton won’t be too bothered. It’s a derby. Full stop. But Carlo Ancelotti has had a special bonus in getting a month or so to work with his players without any games, to talk to them and hone them for about three months. Believe me, he’ll appreciate that. It’s so hard to come in and impose your style and ideas midway through a season without a summer to bed in new ideas. Now he’s had that and I expect a different Everton to the one that left off before the lockdown. I think the break favours Liverpool too, though. Remember right back to the start of the season. I know, it feels like a lifetime ago. Well, they smashed it, found a rhythm much quicker than everyone else, because they had their preparation spot on. I would expect them to do the same after this surprise “pre-season”. They were maybe just getting a little weary before the enforced break, but will come back refreshed and ready. It should make for a special derby. It should make for a special return for both clubs. And it should give those people at home, who’ve been under lockdown for so long, something to get excited about. That’s the joy and beauty of sport.