There’s unfortunate news for Everton ahead of their upcoming match against Liverpool.

Liverpool’s next challenger may face obstacles in their match against Jurgen Klopp’s squad, as recent developments have raised concerns for Everton’s preparations. Despite Everton’s recent 2-0 victory over Nottingham Forest, several worrying incidents have emerged, casting a shadow over their upcoming fixture.

To start, Nottingham Forest sparked controversy with a tweet regarding the officiating during the match, igniting discussions and debates that added a contentious layer to Everton’s win. Such controversies not only impact the morale of the teams but also shape a narrative that could sway future matches.

Furthermore, a significant incident unfolded during the game as Everton striker Beto endured a severe head injury. Beto, who earns £50,000 per week, was involved in a heavy collision with Morgan Gibbs-White, resulting in a distressing scene at Goodison Park. The gravity of the situation was evident as Beto had to be stretchered off during added time, and the stadium fell silent as he received extensive on-field treatment lasting eight minutes

The seriousness of Beto’s injury is underscored by the fact that Sean Dyche’s team is awaiting a medical assessment to ascertain if the 26-year-old has sustained a concussion. According to Liverpool World, this assessment holds significance as it will determine Beto’s eligibility for the upcoming Merseyside derby. FA guidelines stipulate a rigorous four-stage recovery protocol for concussion-related injuries, with each stage necessitating a minimum of 24 hours before the player can be deemed fit to return to play.

Should Beto be diagnosed with a concussion resulting from the collision, he is expected to be sidelined for the highly anticipated derby match, presenting a considerable setback for Everton. This setback is further exacerbated by factors such as Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s injury record and Everton’s precarious position in the Premier League standings, requiring an additional eight points to ensure their status.

Beto’s potential absence would not only strip Everton of a vital player but also diminish their attacking strength. Despite primarily serving as a substitute, Beto’s contributions, including five goals in 35 appearances, have been noteworthy. Furthermore, his imposing physical stature at 6 foot 4 inches poses a threat to Liverpool’s defense if he were to feature in the derby.

However, amidst tactical considerations and the competitive landscape, the foremost concern remains Beto’s health and well-being. In the context of potential concussions, no risks can be taken, and the player’s safety must take precedence over sporting considerations.

Ultimately, the outcome of the medical assessment will chart the course for Beto and Everton. Fans and stakeholders hope for a positive prognosis that allows Beto to return to action soon, while also recognizing the broader significance of player welfare in professional sports. The collision at Goodison Park serves as a poignant reminder of the physical demands and risks inherent in football, emphasizing the necessity for robust medical protocols and player safety measures.