Times reporter Paul Joyce expects Liverpool forward Darwin Nunez to start over Luis Diaz on the left flank
Reputable journalist Paul Joyce believes Liverpool forward Darwin Nunez will start over out-of-form Luis Diaz on the left flank. Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp deployed Nunez in the left-wing position against West Ham United in the 5-1 Carabao Cup win.
Nunez has received criticism for missing big chances in recent games due to a lack of composure. However, the 24-year-old contributes to the overall game with his linkup play, assists and high work ethic.
Despite the criticism from some impatience section of the fanbase, most Kopites have come to adore the Uruguayan. Nunez played a pivotal role in the 5-1 victory over West Ham, showing his versatility to play on the wings.
The tactical deployment allowed the inclusion of Cody Gakpo as the main forward with the Dutchman getting on the scoresheet. Gakpo’s impressive performance and the goal deserve a starting berth against Arsenal in the top-of-the-table Premier League showdown.
While giving his post-match analysis for the Times, Joyce explained that Nunez would retain his place on the left wing. He wrote:
“The deployment of Núñez on the other flank is more likely to be repeated given Díaz’s toils of late and he turned creator, linking with Jones who, without an option in the area to pick out, sneaked a shot through the legs of Areola and found the corner of the net.”
Diaz has struggled to contribute to both productivity and overall gameplay for the Reds in recent games. While Nunez and Salah built a formidable link-up between them, Diaz has only relied on dribbling down the left flank.
The 26-year-old received criticism for the lack of connectivity with teammates and his proclivity to shoot rather than provide assists. The Colombia international has made 21 appearances in all competitions, only contributing with five goals and an assist this season.
Diaz suffered a knee injury last season that forced him to miss 31 games last season. Many football fans and pundits believe that the injury caused regression in his ability to dribble past players.
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The Reds are currently second in the Premier League table with next game against league-leaders Arsenal. The congested fixture and with Manchester City and Aston Villa not far away, there is no margin for error.
