Everton manager David Moyes paid tribute to his opponent’s number Arne Slott ahead of Liverpool’s first trip to the Hill-Dickinson Stadium, but there was no groan from the referee.
Moyes doesn’t make slot moans to referee (Image: Getty Images)
Everton manager David Moyes has told Arne Slott to stop moaning about referees ahead of Sunday’s first-ever Merseyside derby at Hill Dickinson Stadium.
Liverpool will be aiming to finish in the top five to maintain their place at Europe’s top table, and the two teams will be separated by just five points.
However, the Toffees are planning a return to continental football and, depending on results elsewhere at the weekend, a win could move them up to sixth place.
Moyes paid tribute to his opposite number in the face of mounting criticism following last week’s lackluster title defense and exit from the FA Cup and Champions League.
read more: Liverpool News: Arne Slott confirms return of forgotten star as ‘Mo Salah replacement’read more: After facing Premier League star Wonderkid, the debate turns to Max Doman vs. Rio Ngmoja.
But the Scot isn’t moaning like Slott at the referee. “He did a great job,” Moyes said. “And I have to say he’s a really good coach, that’s from a neutral point of view.
“But I’m not sure if he’s saying there are bad calls being made at Anfield. If you ask any Premier League manager about the history of football, they’ll tell you that if there’s one club that makes all the calls, it’s Liverpool Football Club.”
“So even though they’re finding some bad points at the moment, we’ve had to put up with them for years every time we go there. But as a coach, I think he’s a top coach.”
“Actually, I think Liverpool supporters would agree with that if they were honest! There are very few decisions that go against Liverpool at Anfield. Very few.”
Moyes has received a lot of praise for his work since returning to Everton, but he takes it all with a grain of salt.
Pressure on spots is mounting at Anfield (Image: AFP via Getty Images)
“I’m a little older. I’ve been through everything,” he added. “I’ve been there and done it. You know, I could start next season with six losses and you’d say I’m trash!
“In some ways, there is very little balance and reality in this job. Arne Slott won the Premier League last year. If the players don’t get used to it right away, we’ll probably make some changes and it will take a little bit of time. It’s similar to us.”
“What will Everton’s next level be like next year? If you say, ‘We should be in the top four or five!'” then I’ll say, “Wait a minute!” you are wrong. ‘It’s very difficult.
“There are some managers who are doing a great job, but it’s impossible for someone to stay in the Premier League without losing. Who will be in the spotlight every year?”
Join our new WhatsApp community and receive Mirror Football content every day. Community members also receive special offers, promotions, and advertisements from us and our partners. If you don’t like our community, you can check it out whenever you like. If you are interested, please read our privacy notice.
World Cup Legends – Special Edition now on sale
Nothing creates legends like the World Cup. This new special edition publication celebrates the heroes of Earth’s greatest sporting event.
Buy now here or from participating supermarkets, high street retailers and independent newsagents from Wednesday 25 March 2026. Online orders will be shipped starting Wednesday, March 25th, with shipping and packaging charges applicable.
