Carra holds hands up for Everton defeat

Last updated : 16 September 2006 By Al Campbell
Carragher had a poor game on his return from injury last week and was at fault for Everton's second goal. The popular defender is not one to make excuses and admitted he had a poor game last Saturday which was why he was so determined to keep a clean sheet against PSV.

"I haven't been able to get the derby off my mind to be honest. For days afterwards I couldn't sleep or stop thinking about it. We apologise to the supporters for the derby defeat. It was a very poor performance, especially from me personally, and we know it. But credit to Everton because they fully deserved to win," admitted Carragher.

"We've enjoyed many great victories over them in recent years so it's only right that they are going to enjoy this. My injury was fine, it was just maybe a lack of training but that's taking nothing away from Everton. They played very well and you won't be hearing any excuses from us. We've got the return game against them in February, which we're all looking forward to, but between now and then we have to get ourselves back on the road.

"I was just desperate play against PSV to try and rectify the mistakes I made against Everton. In a way I think I did that. We done okay but it's some way off what we can do. I think it was a fair result. There weren't many chances in the game. They had a couple of half chances in the second half but then we had Stevie's effort at the end. As the away team I think we've got to be the happier to have come out of it with a draw.

"Obviously, all games in the group are important but I think it's especially important not to lose in your first game. It's always good to get that first point on the board and hopefully we can build on it in the coming games. Our next opponents in the Champions League are Galatasaray, that's at Anfield and it's vital that we capitalise on home advantage."