ALLAN: NO OLD PALS ACT IF THEY WEAR RED

EVERTON’S Brazilian star Allan will be up against three of his best mates in the Mersey derby – and has vowed to treat them like they are trying to steal the food from his family’s dinner table.

The midfielder, 31, insists split loyalties will not be an issue when he faces Liverpool’s samba trio Alisson, Fabinho and Roberto Firmino.

Along with his Goodison team-mate Richarlison and Manchester-based quartet Fernandinho, Ederson, Gabriel

Jesus and Fred, a tight Brazilian bond has developed in the north-west of England.

But Allan (above) will only see red at Anfield.

“I have to fight for my team, I have to fight for my family, for my team-mates and my daily bread,” said the man signed 18 months ago from Napoli for £22million.

“All the Brazilians in the area have a great relationship.

But when it comes to

By

Simon Mullock

a match, I don’t see the face of a friend. I only see the colour of the shirt.

“They are not friends at that moment, they are an opponent – and I have my job to do.

“No part of the friendship goes on to the pitch. It is put to one side and it doesn’t matter who they are.”

Everton are battling relegation despite claiming a precious point against Leicester on Wednesday night thanks to Richarlison’s injurytime equaliser.

Allan said: “The situation we are in is always on my mind.

“I look at the other results, I look at the table, who we have got to play, and I am very apprehensive.

“But this is the time to fight even harder.

“Some of the other players have found it hard to deal with. But I think we have the quality here to get out of this situation.”