Daijiworld Media Network – Liverpool

Liverpool, Sep 19: Liverpool manager Arne Slot has thanked Everton for the solidarity they showed following the tragic death of forward Diogo Jota in July. Jota, 28, died in a car accident in Spain just weeks after Liverpool celebrated their Premier League triumph. His final goal came in April’s Merseyside derby, a 1-0 win for the Reds at Anfield.

Speaking ahead of Saturday’s derby, Slot praised Everton’s gesture. “They are a good team and there is rivalry,” he said. “But what I also liked and want to emphasise is what they did when Diogo passed away. They showed their respect and in such moments it’s heartening to see that even in tragedy the rivalry remains but respect prevails.”

Despite a record transfer spend of nearly £450 million, Liverpool have maintained a perfect start under Slot, winning all five Premier League and Champions League games with late goals. “I prefer winning while knowing we can still improve, rather than losing,” Slot noted.

The Dutchman is confident his new signings can handle the derby’s intensity. “For the new ones it’s not the first time they’re playing in high-rivalry, high-intensity circumstances,” he said. “The focus should be on the rivalry but also on what we need to do to win—being intense, winning duels, and playing well on and off the ball.”

Record signing Alexander Isak, who cost £125 million from Newcastle, debuted in the 3-2 win over Atletico Madrid. Slot revealed the striker “felt his body more than ever” after limited pre-season training, hinting that Hugo Ekitike may start in his place on Saturday.