Dalglish ready for derby

KENNY DALGLISH returns to Goodison Park as Liverpool manager for the first time since quitting as Reds manager 20 years ago insisting little has changed in the Merseyside derby.

Just a couple of days after seeing Everton striker Tony Cottee score two late goals in a 4-4 draw extra-time in a fifth-round FA Cup replay on February 20th 1991 the Scot walked out.

At the time he cited health issues, feeling the pressure not only of the job but of the previous two years during which he had dealt so personally and admirably with the Hillsborough disaster.

“The competition is still as intense and the desire to win is the same as before,” said the Liverpool manager.

“I don’t think it has devalued – it doesn’t matter how long ago it was you have been involved or not or how recently. It is a Merseyside derby and like everyone who has been involved in it they think it is the most important one.

Asked about his memories of that night at Goodison Park just over 20 years ago and the fall-out from it Dalglish added: “We’ve been through all that many times before and there is no point in revisiting it.

“But if we get four goals on Saturday I’ll be delighted. If we get four it will be entertaining but I don’t think it will be entertaining for the Blue half.”

“Derbies are always going to be derbies and it is hugely important for this city.

“There are players who have not played in it before who may play on Saturday but I am sure they understand what it stands for.”

New players like Charlie Adam, Jose Enrique, Stewart Downing, Jordan Henderson and January signing Andy Carroll, who arrived after the Anfield derby, are all expected to play a part in their first all-Merseyside clash.

However, Dalglish has no qualms about them coping in what can be a pressurised atmosphere.

“I think the Rangers-Celtic derby has given Charlie a good grounding, Andy has had the north-east derby and Stewart has had Villa-Birmingham — which is not the smallest,” said the Scot.

“They may not have experienced this derby but they have all experienced a derby of some sorts.” Captain Steven Gerrard will be desperate to play having made two short substitute appearances on his comeback from a six-month lay-off after groin surgery.

But Dalglish remains cautious over the England midfielder.

“The game is not the important thing – Steven Gerrard is the most important,” he explained.