FA Charges Everton, Liverpool, and Coaches After Heated Merseyside Derby

The Football Association has charged Everton, Liverpool, and two members of Liverpool’s coaching staff following a tense conclusion to Wednesday’s Merseyside derby at Goodison Park.

Both clubs face allegations of failing to control their players and technical staff, who reportedly engaged in improper and provocative behavior after the final whistle.

Liverpool manager Arne Slot has been individually charged for allegedly directing inappropriate, insulting, or abusive remarks towards referee Michael Oliver and an assistant referee. His assistant, Sipke Hulshoff, who was also dismissed, faces similar accusations both during and after his sending-off.

The deadline for responses from Everton, Liverpool, Slot, and Hulshoff is set for Wednesday, February 19.

The post-match chaos erupted following a dramatic 98th-minute equalizer by Everton’s James Tarkowski, a goal that was confirmed after a VAR review. Liverpool players contested the decision, arguing that a foul by Everton striker Beto on Ibrahima Konaté should have nullified the goal.

Tensions escalated when Everton midfielder Abdoulaye Doucouré celebrated in front of Liverpool supporters, leading to a heated exchange with Curtis Jones. Both players received second yellow cards and were subsequently dismissed.

Slot and Hulshoff were also sent off after confronting Oliver on the pitch. Reflecting on the incident, Slot later admitted he allowed emotions to take over and acknowledged he should have handled the situation differently.

The 2-2 draw extended Liverpool’s lead at the top of the Premier League to seven points, while Everton moved up to 15th, sitting 10 points clear of the relegation zone.

Despite the charges, Slot is expected to be on the sidelines for Liverpool’s upcoming fixture against Wolves at Anfield on Sunday. The Premier League initially reported that he would serve a two-match suspension for offensive language, but the statement was later removed, with sources attributing the error to a miscommunication.

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