Everton and Liverpool’s farewell Merseyside derby at Goodison Park was undoubtedly a success. The 2-2 draw was a flurry of unbridled chaos, from four goals—the final one being a shot by James Tarkowski in the 98th minute that sent the Gwladys Street end into a frenzy—to a melee at full time that resulted in four red cards.
One of the main talking points following an incident that paralyzed the entire city was Liverpool manager Arne Slot’s expulsion for approaching referee Michael Oliver. Although the Dutchman’s actions didn’t appear all that bad at first, recently discovered video offers a more accurate picture of the circumstances.
After the final whistle, Slot was sent off along with Abdoulaye Doucoure, Curtis Jones, and assistant manager Sipke Hulshoff. When Hulshoff angrily objected to Tarkowski’s goal, which had been subjected to a protracted VAR review for offside and a potential foul in the build-up, he was sent off. Jones received a second yellow card for starting the altercations, while Doucoure was sent off after receiving another booking for agitating the visiting supporters after the game.
Why Arne Slot Was Sent Off
The Dutchman angrily confronted the referees after the full-time whistle
TNT Sports footage only captured the last few lines of an odd exchange between Slot and Oliver before he shook hands angrily with the official, perhaps causing the referee to dig into his pocket for a red card. The entire altercation is now visible from a new angle. View the video below:
Another angle of Arne Slot's red card tonight…
What did he say to Michael Oliver 🤝 pic.twitter.com/qzR376WKUw
— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) February 12, 2025
According to reports from the Daily Mail and Goal, the Dutchman’s suspension is thought to have been caused by the harsh and sarcastic handshake, however it is unknown exactly what was said between him and Oliver at the time of writing. Therefore, when the Reds play Wolves at Anfield on Sunday, Slot and Hulshoff will not be in the dugout.
John Heitinga, an assistant first-team coach who played 140 games for Everton, is anticipated to step in for them while they are away. With 14 games left, Liverpool leads Arsenal by seven points in the Premier League standings, but Wednesday night’s intense match at Goodison Park has definitely rekindled the competition for the championship.
