Stay up to date with notifications from The Independent

Notifications can be managed in browser preferences.

Liverpool's Joe Gomez eager to keep up improved defensive record against Everton

Liverpool have conceded only two goals at home in the Premier League all season

Mark Critchley
Northern Football Correspondent
Thursday 07 December 2017 11:34 GMT
Comments
Liverpool are eager to keep up their improved defensive record
Liverpool are eager to keep up their improved defensive record (AFP)

Joe Gomez believes Liverpool's new-found defensive stability has them in good stead ahead of this weekend's Merseyside derby.

The Reds have conceded only six goals in the nine games since the mauling at Tottenham in October and registered another clean sheet as they routed Spartak Moscow on Wednesday evening to finish top of their Champions League group.

Next up for Jurgen Klopp's men is the first meeting of the season with Everton - and new boss Sam Allardyce - as they look to extend a run of 14 matches unbeaten against their bitter rivals.

Gomez believes the Toffees won't merely set up to defend on Sunday, something he thinks could play into their hands.

“There's a massive, massive derby against a team with a new manager. I think they will probably be fired up and motivated," he said. "We have our threats but it is key we are not over-confident and we have to stay composed and be aware of their threats. I think we have seen some teams come to Anfield and sit off but I think with the derby I don't think they'll come too defensive-minded as they will be fired up and want to attack us. I am sure it will be a tough game and hopefully we can carry on our run."

Liverpool have conceded only two goals at home in the Premier League all season and Gomez is aware of the need to keep things tight in what should be a keenly contested affair.

“We are aware they have their threats going forward and they have a lot of quality but we are always focused on defensive aspects of the game and will approach the game the same way we do any, just try to defend and take out chances," he added.

“A lot of our clean sheets have come at home and that is a positive for us. We want people to come here and for it to be difficult for them to score and hopefully we can continue that."

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in