Ex-Liverpool star predicts how Everton fans will react in the Merseyside Derby

Sean Dyche’s Everton saw their cushion above the relegation zone narrow to just four points after failing to secure a win against Southampton, who were bottom of the table.

With December approaching and some challenging fixtures ahead, Everton is under pressure to rack up points and avoid being dragged deeper into the relegation battle.

Reports suggest Dyche may be losing the dressing room, partly due to decisions like keeping Jarrad Branthwaite on the bench.

Meanwhile, a member of Liverpool’s coaching staff has stirred additional controversy on Merseyside, heightening the local rivalry.

John Heitinga’s Return and the Controversy

Liverpool manager Arne Slot acknowledged that John Heitinga’s move to Liverpool’s coaching staff was seen as controversial, given his past as a player for Everton.

Heitinga’s return is something former Dutch international Boudewijn Zenden believes could lead to a frosty reception when Liverpool visits Goodison Park in December.

“John’s presence gives watching Liverpool an extra dimension, yes,” Zenden told Voetbal Primeur.

“Arne discussed Everton with John, but John didn’t see it as a problem, and Liverpool fans don’t mind either.

Liverpool will go to Goodison Park on December 7, and John may hear something from Everton fans.”

Zenden noted that Heitinga has been well-received at Liverpool, where he focuses on individual coaching and defensive strategy for the first team.

Although Slot wasn’t personally familiar with Heitinga before, he heard from Liverpool players that they are very enthusiastic about his work.

While Heitinga’s new role at Liverpool has raised eyebrows, the bigger question is whether Dyche will still be Everton’s manager by the time of the Merseyside Derby.

Reports indicate that Everton’s ownership group, The Friedkin Group, may already be considering potential replacements for Dyche.

Heitinga’s Past Everton Connection

It’s not unheard of for players and staff to cross rival lines, but Heitinga’s switch to Liverpool feels especially striking given his strong connection to Everton.

As recently as 2019, Heitinga shared his affection for Everton, famously tweeting, “Once a Blue, always a Blue” in response to the club’s official account.

Now, though, Heitinga will face his former fans from the opposing bench when Liverpool visits Goodison.

Everton supporters, who have already expressed frustration with Dyche’s management this season, may not hesitate to direct some of that ire toward Heitinga during the derby.

With tensions rising and fans already on edge, December’s Merseyside Derby promises to be even more intense as both clubs navigate their own pressures and shifting loyalties on Merseyside.