Everton have stoked tensions ahead of Monday's Premier League meeting with Newcastle United by posting a four-word taunt on their official TikTok channel.
The post came after the Toffees' 3-1 Carabao Cup victory at the Hill Dickinson Stadium on Thursday, a match that ended with tempers flaring as Dan Burn headed home and Joelinton clashed with Jordan Pickford and James Tarkowski.
Everton's TikTok video used clips of Joelinton and Harvey Barnes complaining about Tarkowski playing on after the ball had gone out of play, with a caption directed at Newcastle reading: "Always play to the whistle" and a voice saying: "OK, but that's funny."
Rivalry intensifies
The home club also played a fan rendition of the Jordan Pickford song over the tannoy after the final whistle, with lyrics including "He hates Newcastle", to the delight of the Wearsider.
Newcastle boss Matthias Jaissle has admitted he has social media spies, and it remains to be seen whether the club sees the funny side. The tensions between the two clubs show no sign of easing, with the fixture described as a rivalry that nobody ever asked for.
Truth about Hackney move
Newcastle had considered signing Hayden Hackney over the last two years, with several scouting missions to track the midfielder. It became clear Hackney was for sale last May after Middlesbrough failed to win promotion, but Newcastle's managerial uncertainty prevented a move.
Hackney was believed to be on Andy Howe's list and had a recommendation from former chief scout Steve Nickson. However, with Eddie Howe indicating second thoughts on staying as boss, Hackney's representatives moved on to other clubs, including Tottenham, Leeds, Crystal Palace, Fulham and Brentford. Hackney chose Everton after speaking to David Moyes, signing a £24m deal.
Burn's goal ambitions
Dan Burn, who scored a consolation header against Everton on Thursday, is eager to improve his scoring record. The 6ft 7in defender scored just twice last season, against Athletic Bilbao in the Champions League and in the 3-1 win over Brighton & Hove Albion at St James' Park.
Burn told Chronicle Live: "I've been saying this for about 16 years! But I've always said I need to score more goals and should score more goals. Hopefully I can get a few more, I think six is the most I've got."
