Klopp praises Liverpool star who 'showed up' against Everton; Merseyside derby win a 'massive relief'

Jurgen Klopp was delighted with the performance of his Liverpool players as they deservedly beat Everton 2-0 in Monday night's Merseyside derby.

Liverpool went into Monday night's derby without a win in four Premier League games. Their last league victory came against Leicester City on December 30.

Everton meanwhile headed into this game after beating league leaders Arsenal 1-0 at Goodison Park last weekend. But Sean Dyche's side couldn't reach that same level in the derby as they were second against Liverpool.

The Toffees could easily have found themselves in front as James Tarkowski's header bounced off the post.

Their opponents took advantage of this respite to break away quickly on the counterattack. Darwin Nunez moved away from his marker and skillfully placed Mohamed Salah, who tapped the ball past Jordan Pickford.

Liverpool were then able to double their lead shortly after the break. Trent Alexander-Arnold's low cross to the back post found Cody Gakpo, who scored from close range to score his first goal for the club.

Klopp was able to see the game to earn a well-deserved victory. If they beat Newcastle this weekend they will be just six points off the top four with one game less.

Speaking after the match, Klopp praised Liverpool youngster Stefan Bajcetic and suggested his side were a 'real unit' against Everton.

"The atmosphere was exceptional, I'm in love with my fans and what they did tonight was special and extremely useful - the boys paid it back. It was a real derby and we We played a game we wanted to play, not a game Everton wanted to play," Klopp told Sky Sports.

"We kept the ball, worked up the sides and stayed patient. We got in behind their line. I saw a real unity tonight, everyone really fought hard and we scored on two counterattacks sensational. Tonight we were there and that must be a sign for us of what we need to do. We probably had 70% possession and scored on two counters, which makes it special.

"Last week the first ball went in, deflection and goal. Yes, that was the biggest difference from other games, but the full game performance was the best in a while. We'll take wins when you won't play well but it's better to get three points when you deserve it and today we deserve it.

"A huge relief. You never know when you're going to do it next. Whatever the crowd asks me, I would have done, except get rid of my clothes.

"I really think - and you don't want to find yourself in difficult situations - that your behavior defines the future. This club has been through worse things but we are the club that can show who can handle the tough times. I enjoyed every second of the game.”

On Stefan Bajcetic's performance: "I saw a lot of good performances tonight but Stefan showed up. We're really happy with him, a top boy, really smart and calm. He played in a new position, at eight years old, and I asked him afterwards if he liked it and he said yes. It's a great story."

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