Gabby Agbonlahor says Liverpool striker Darwin Nunez ‘needs to come out of the firing line’
Liverpool striker Darwin Nunez has been among the headlines and is the topic of discussion online among rival fans even when the Reds are not playing. Although for the wrong reasons, Darwin gives the critics a lot to talk about. So many chances missed, but fans totally back the Uruguayan.
Ever since making them move to Merseyside over the summer, the 23-year-old has shown a lot of promise in the way he times his runs. His movement is extremely unpredictable for the defenders and if he works on his finishing, he could in all likelihood be the next best thing in World Football.
However, the reality is much different as he has missed more big chances than any other player (15) and also registered 11 offsides all in all. Even though his statistics are far from bad, the conversion rates are alarming, and he certainly needs to improve that.
Speaking to Football Insider via the Daily Mail, former Aston Villa striker Gabby Agbonlahor spoke about how Nunez is always in the firing line, and some time off could help him find his feet again. Here is what else he said:
“I think he could do with coming out of the firing line for the next couple of games. Gakpo could come in and give the team a hand. The longer he keeps missing these chances, it can’t be good for his confidence.”
‘He’s missing these massive chances at the moment, and he needs to learn how to time his runs better. He needs that drilled into him on the training ground.”
At the end of the day, it is only Nunez who is responsible for how he plays but the introduction of Cody Gakpo could help him lighten the workload on him, and try to regain his confidence.
The Netherlands internationa, being a new arrival, can take a fair bit of spotlight on himself. Moreover, he can hopefully form a lethal partnership up front with the Uruguay international.
One thing is certain, Darwin causes a lot of mayhem and is a huge contributor to defensive lines losing their shape. Some of the greatest strikers including the likes of Filipo Inzhagi also found themselves offside a fair few times.
It is just an indication of how good one is at pushing the defensive line back and keeping the defenders cautious with his movements. We have seen many times where Nunez has timed his run well or left the defence in his wake with his speed.
Being offside a few times isn’t the issue. He just needs to be a bit more confident in front of goal and above all, needs a little luck. Once the first few goals go in this year, the rest should follow.
More Liverpool News
- Transfer News: Real Madrid eyeing Liverpool star centre-back Ibrahima Konate
- Borussia Dortmund ‘summon’ Liverpool target Jude Bellingham for contract talks
- Liverpool rekindle their interest in Wolves midfielder Matheus Nunes
Ultimately, having a striker who is able to finish their chances on a consistent basis could be a major asset for Liverpool and help to propel the team to success and hopefully, Darwin comes to life sooner than later.
