Silva plays down impact of Anfield derby defeat on Everton’s downturn

Everton boss Marco Silva insists there was no derby hangover in the aftermath of their defeat at Anfield earlier this season despite the club’s patchy form since.

The Toffees were pushing for a top six place when they crossed Stanley Park in December and went toe-to-toe with their great rivals for the 90 minutes.

Sadly for Everton fans, a freak 96th-minute goal from Liveprool’s Divock Origi broke blue hearts.

The result seemed to have a long-lasting effect as the club has struggled for consistency since, losing nine of their subsequent 16 games in all competitions.

That suggestion was quickly shot down by Silva at his pre-Goodison derby press conference.

The Portuguese acknowledges the manner of the defeat was hard to take but insists it was not to blame for their patchy form since.

“[It] Affected that specific moment and it affected that result.

“We deserved more than we achieved but if you are talking to me about January, February, then no. It doesn’t make sense.

“We have to react. For all the good moments and in the bad moments we have to react stronger and show character and personality.

“It had the impact in that moment and maybe the week after but after that no. It doesn’t make sense.”

Looking ahead to Sunday’s return meeting at Goodison Park Silva is hopeful a positive result can revive the club’s season like the Anfield derby seemingly torpefied it.

When asked if a win on Sunday could inspire his players, Silva said:

“To give a fantastic feeling to our fans and teams I have to agree.

“If you asked what we want to give to our fans we would all answer three points. We will work hard to achieve to do that.

“Our players and fans have to work together.”