The build-up to the first Merseyside Derby is underway, and Beto needs to listen to Duncan Ferguson’s advice when it comes to Liverpool against Everton.
It’s the first fixture any Evertonian would look for on the calendar, as for once, both clubs find themselves in healthy positions.
That’s not been the case over the last few years with the Red side at the top and the Blue side at the bottom, but Everton are catching up this campaign.
It’s an intriguing time to be a Toffees fan at the moment, with David Moyes playing exciting football, and there’s a real chance to grab their first win at Anfield since 1999 in front of fans.
But the Blues will need any advantage they can get, and Duncan Ferguson has been there and done it, giving the perfect advice.
Former Everton player and manager Duncan Ferguson being interviewed.
Photo by Chris Brunskill/Fantasista/Getty Images
Duncan Ferguson used physical strengths to his advantage in Liverpool vs Everton
The iconic striker has played in many a derby, scoring four goals against Liverpool for the Blues, and knows what it takes to thrive against Everton’s bitter rivals.
Last year, Ferguson fancied Everton to beat Liverpool, and although that didn’t happen, they showed the key attributes that the Scot always prided himself on.
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Speaking to The Telegraph in February 2025, the former Everton forward suggested what he ‘always wanted’ and did against Liverpool.
“We always wanted to turn it into a battle,” Ferguson said.
“I was that type of player. Liverpool had the better players, so I never sensed any fear from them, but we never feared them, either.
“I felt against most teams I could use my physical strengths and whatever reputation I had to my advantage. You know how it works.”
As it was seen throughout his career on Merseyside, he certainly backed this up, as a few players in the squad could learn a thing or two.
This should send a specific message to one player, as Beto is the main man up front now, and he has the platform to emulate Ferguson.
Beto should focus on his physical side to come out on top in Liverpool vs Everton
Of course, the 27-year-old might never get to the legacy of Ferguson, but he has a similar build to the Everton legend.
Beto is a tall, physical forward just like Ferguson was, and already has experience of scoring against Liverpool like Big Dunc.
Although he managed the achievement in one game last season, Beto’s form has dipped since, and by taking on Ferguson’s advice, he could come out on top.
Moyes wants to improve Beto’s physical presence, as he did with Ferguson, and has already caused Liverpool problems at Anfield by utilizing this aspect of his game.
But the Guinea-Bissau international must stick to this and not put too much focus on the goal-scoring aspect, which he struggled with against Aston Villa.
Beto has to see the game as a ‘battle’, and there is no one better to listen to than Ferguson.