Former Everton defender Ben Godfrey could not resist taking a dig at Liverpool during his first interview at new club Atalanta.
When a player lives and breathes the Merseyside derby, the iconic rivalry sticks with them wherever they go.
That was certainly the case for defender Ben Godfrey, who took the first opportunity he got to aim a jab at Everton‘s rivals.
The 26-year-old was moved on from Goodison Park at the end of June after it became clear that he was not going to extend his stay with the Toffees.
He joined Italian side Atalanta, who are set to compete in the Champions League after finishing fourth in Serie A last season.
The Italian outfit enjoyed a deep run in the Europa League last season too, including a quarter-final win over Liverpool – something Godfrey was quick to point out after his move.
Ben Godfrey makes Liverpool dig in press conference
Godfrey was wheeled out to speak to the press following his move to Italy, where he spoke about Carlo Ancelotti’s role in his transfer decision.
He also took an opportunity to put a smile on the face of any Everton fans listening.
As quoted by TuttoSport, Godfrey said “Ancelotti was one of the first who I contacted once I learned of Atalanta’s interest – he immediately advised me to go there.
“Serie A is a Championship [which is] very strong where all the teams are tactically prepared. The Champions League is the dream of most soccer players.
“At Everton, everyone was happy that I came here, like how they were happy with Liverpool’s elimination in the quarter-finals of the Europa League.”
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Atalanta stunned Jurgen Klopp’s side, beating them 4-0 across both legs in the tournament.
Godfrey will hope for a similar result again if they meet in next season’s Champions League.
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