Rodgers remains defiant, says 'I haven't lost a derby yet'
Brendan Rodgers remains defiant and says “I haven’t lost a derby yet” as Liverpool prepare to face Everton after another disappointing result.
The Reds could only manage a 1-1 Anfield draw with Sion in the Europa League on Thursday putting the spotlight firmly back on the Reds boss, who made seven changes.
Rodgers will switch back to his first-choice line-up – which will include striker Daniel Sturridge fresh from his brace against Aston Villa last weekend – and insists Goodison Park holds no fear on Sunday.
“We go into the game against Everton and we will focus on our performance. The players will look forward to it,” he said.
“I haven’t lost a derby yet (won one, drawn five) and they are always good games.
“We are point behind Everton – I know the media and written press will build the game up but we will stay calm.
“I am immensely enjoying the job, it is a great challenge and it is a rebuilding.”
Rodgers defended his decision to make significant changes for Europe, as he did a fortnight ago when they drew their opener in Bordeaux.
“For this game, there were a number of players we needed to be careful with like Daniel (Sturridge) that were coming back from injuries,” he added.
“There is no doubt we want to qualify and get through to the knockout stages but we are picking teams to get a result.
“Away in Bordeaux a lot of young players played but we are still going up in games.
“The story of the game was obvious; we started well, got in front, gave away a poor goal and then created chances and should have maybe won a lot more comfortable but unfortunately ended up drawing and a bit frustrated.
“We have enough chances to win the game and that is the disappointment.”
Sion boss Didier Tholot was more than satisfied with a draw.
“I am very pleased. It is a job well done. I had a plan and my players put it into action. We are very happy with the point we gained here,” he said.
