Everton, Liverpool, and key personnel face disciplinary action following a fiery Merseyside derby that ended in a 2-2 draw. The Football Association has charged both clubs, as well as Liverpool manager Arne Slot and his assistant Sipke Hulshoff, for their conduct during and after the match.
Slot has been accused of acting improperly and using insulting or abusive language toward both the match referee and an assistant referee. He received a red card from Michael Oliver and now risks an extended touchline ban. Hulshoff, who was sent off in the tunnel, faces similar charges, including improper behavior toward match officials even after his dismissal.
The FA has also charged both clubs with failing to control their players and staff in the technical area, citing improper and provocative behavior after the final whistle. All parties have until Wednesday, February 19, to respond to the charges.
Speaking before the charges were made official, Slot admitted he regretted his actions and acknowledged that his emotions got the better of him. Reflecting on the events of the match, he said he hopes to handle similar situations differently in the future.
The controversy erupted in stoppage time when Everton’s James Tarkowski scored a dramatic 98th-minute equalizer. Liverpool players and staff were furious over an apparent push by Everton striker Beto on Ibrahima Konaté in the buildup to the goal, which was reviewed but not overturned by the video assistant referee.
Slot expressed his frustration, explaining that multiple incidents in stoppage time contributed to his reaction. He detailed how the lengthy VAR review led to confusion and heightened emotions, particularly when Everton fans erupted in celebration after the decision went in their favor.
The chaotic scenes also saw red cards for Liverpool’s Curtis Jones and Everton’s Abdoulaye Doucouré. Jones reacted angrily to Doucouré celebrating in front of the visiting fans, which escalated tensions further. Slot confirmed he intends to speak with Jones about his response but defended the midfielder’s passion for his team and the supporters.
Liverpool now face the prospect of being without Jones for their next fixture against Wolves due to suspension. In addition, forward Cody Gakpo is a doubt after suffering a foot injury during the derby. Slot emphasized that while emotions run high in football, both he and his players must find better ways to channel their frustration in future situations.
Despite the controversy, Slot hopes to move forward from the incident, learning from the experience and ensuring better control of emotions in the heat of the moment. The FA’s disciplinary proceedings will now determine the extent of the repercussions for Liverpool, Everton, and their respective coaching staffs.
