Everton boss Sean Dyche previously revealed he had a "soft spot" for bitter rivals Liverpool and his comments have resurfaced ahead of the Merseyside derby.
The Toffees make the short trip to Anfield on Monday evening as Dyche aims to extend his 100% winning record after beating Arsenal 1-0 on Saturday February 4 in his first game in charge.
And it's not just pride up for grabs. Everton require three points to escape the relegation zone. Meanwhile, Liverpool need to win if they are to stand a chance of qualifying for Europe next season.
The Reds suffered their seventh Premier League defeat against Wolves, losing 3-0 to the relegation threatened side and dropping to 10th in the table, 10 points adrift of the European places.
Advert
Toffees fans may pour scorn on Dyche's comments. However, the former Burnley boss will be stood firmly with the blue half of Merseyside on Monday night, as he reignites his feud with Jurgen Klopp.
Dyche reveals "soft spot" for Liverpool
Speaking exclusively to LADbible in 2022 before he was appointed as Everton boss, Dyche admitted to having a "long-distance support" for Liverpool.
He said: “I was a ’70s kid, so obviously in the ’70s the great sides, Kenny Dalglish and the likes, Graeme Souness and all these top players.
"Phil Neal was local-ish to me in Kettering, from Irchester I believe originally. So I had a very long-distance support, if you like, for Liverpool – but I think a lot did in the ’70s.
"I’ve always had a soft spot for Liverpool from those days and the many, many memories of those top sides.”
The 52-year-old was also pictured with fans for Liverpool's Champions League final match against Real Madrid in Paris, further adding fuel to the fire.
However, all will be forgiven if the 51-year-old can lead Everton to victory on derby day.
Topics: Sean Dyche, Everton, Liverpool, Jurgen Klopp, Premier League, Football
Joe Adams