Flag display to mark last derby clash at Goodison

Supporter Katie Carter said flag displays helped to "boost the atmosphere"

The final Merseyside derby at Everton's Goodison Park stadium will take place later, with plans for a special extended flag display.

The Toffees will move to a new stadium at Bramley-Moore Dock for the start of the 2025-26 season and this will be the club's last home clash with city rivals Liverpool.

To mark the occasion members of the 1878s, a group of volunteer fans who help to create extra atmosphere at the ground, will extend a flag display to include the Upper Gwladys Street stand.

Group member Katie Carter said it would be the first time waving flags would feature in the upper stand seats, and there will there will be a total of 70 two-pole flags on display as well as draped flags and flags left on seats.

The display will include the Upper Gwladys Street stand for the first time

Ms Carter said such displays were "part of the club's history" and helped to bring atmosphere to the games.

"It shows the players that we are behind them and will try and boost that atmosphere and boost them up on the pitch for when they come out of the tunnel," she said.

Fans are also expected to be on hand to welcome the team buses to the ground, with Merseyside Police warning against the use of flares.

The force has also asked people to allow plenty of time to get to the stadium.

A sell-out crowd is expected to fill Goodison Park for the match

Ch Supt Claire Doyle, in charge of policing the match, said: "While recognising that some supporters feel they can add to the atmosphere of the occasion, the use of flares and other pyrotechnics at and around football matches is a concern.

"We fully support the club in working to eradicate this dangerous and reckless practice and would ask that supporters work with us.

"We have vast experience policing derby matches and know that fans of both clubs will mix with their family, friends and neighbours - regardless of whether they are Red or Blue - in the run up to this game, and it is an occasion that should be celebrated."