Liverpool facing nightmare fixture pile-up after 'new date set' for Merseyside derby clash with Everton
The historic fixture has new date.
A new date has been ‘pencilled in’ for the last-ever Merseyside derby at Goodison Park.
The original fixture was postponed last Saturday lunchtime due to Storm Darragh.
Both clubs are thought to be in talks with the police, Premier League and broadcasters regarding the fixture, according to the Mirror.
As per the Premier League rules, postponed fixtures must be played during the next available midweek slot.
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However, due to Liverpool’s commitments in the Champions League, Carabao Cup, FA Cup, and Premier League, the game is likely to be played on Tuesday, 11 February.
But this is yet to be officially confirmed.
If the new date is correct, this will cause a huge problem for the Reds regarding their already hectic fixture schedule.
The proposed date falls between the FA Cup fourth-round weekend (February 8/9) and the Premier League fixture against Wolves at Anfield on February 16.
Of course, they would have to progress from the third-round of the FA Cup before this becomes a potential concern.
Although Arne Slot's side could possibly play five matches in just 15 days.
The first legs of the Champions League knockout play-offs are also set to take place on February 11 and 12, but with Liverpool currently top of the 36-team group phase with six wins from six, they are likely to avoid this eventuality.
How Liverpool's fixture pile-up could look
February 1 - Bournemouth vs Liverpool (Premier League)
February 5 - Potential Carabao Cup semi-final second leg (TBC)
February 8 - Potential FA Cup fourth round tie (TBC)
February 11 - Everton vs Liverpool (Premier League)
February 16 - Liverpool vs Wolves (Premier League)
What Arne Slot has said about fixture congestion
This season, several Premier League managers and players have discussed demanding fixture schedules.
But Slot is not the type to look for excuses. Back in September he put a positive spin on his answers to questions surrounding the topic.
"It is what it is – if we are fortunate to work at big clubs like I do, we also have a lot of good players," said Slot ahead of Liverpool's 1-0 defeat against Nottingham Forest.
"And that's also one of the reasons why we have so many players.
"If we only played 15 games then we wouldn't need as many.
"I understand that is why it is so hard for the players because you need a mental rest more than a physical one because you ask quite a lot of them.
"It is not hard for me, it is much harder for the players that went to their national teams. I am fully energised playing padel every day!"
Topics: Liverpool, Everton, Premier League, FA Cup, Carabao Cup, Champions League
Luke Davies