Rafael Benitez unsure of his Merseyside loyalties ahead of the derby
As quoted by Liverpool Echo, former Liverpool and Everton manager Rafael Benitez is unsure of his Merseyside loyalties ahead of the derby tonight at Anfield.
Benitez, who recently managed Everton for six months after leading Liverpool for six years between 2004 and 2010, lives in the city and has allegiances with both clubs.
The Spaniard has a special bond with the Red side of Merseyside after what he did for us by winning the Champions League in 2005 and the FA Cup in 2006. On the contrary, he was sacked from the Everton job last season after an underwhelming start to life at Goodison Park.
Here’s what Benitez said when asked about his loyalties in Merseyside (h/t Liverpool Echo):
“I can’t say I’m more Liverpool or Everton today. Logically, in six years there were a lot of highs at Liverpool, but I still have good friends amongst the Everton fans.”
As much as Liverpool fans may take exception with this quote, it shows the class of a man who is respected by both sets of supporters irrespective of his past. No one can claim that he deliberately did a bad job at Everton. For proof, we can see what his successor Frank Lampard did before getting sacked.
Tonight’s Merseyside derby has a different feel to it compared to any in the recent past. Both clubs are not where they want to be at the table. Sean Dyche has sparked something at Everton with a win over Arsenal, while Jurgen Klopp has ensured his commitment to Liverpool ahead of the game.
This game has always had talking points. Tonight is not going to be any different. As a Liverpool fan, we can hope that this game kickstarts our campaign to an extent.
More Liverpool News:
- Liverpool ready to make an offer for Wolves ace Ruben Neves
- Liverpool target Josko Gvardiol priced at €110 million
- Glen Johnson on Jude Bellingham to Liverpool
With important games against Newcastle United and Real Madrid coming up, it will be an understatement to say that the Reds need a win going into that. Beating your local rivals at home can unite the fan base and the team.
