Liverpool legend Mohamed Salah highlights the importance of Darwin Nunez at the club despite his struggle with inconsistencies this season. The Reds beat Southampton 3-1 at Anfield in a comeback victory to secure a 16-point Premier League lead over Arsenal.
The Uruguayan started the comeback in the second half after scoring a close 51-minute tap-in from a Luis Diaz assist. Nunez then earned a penalty in the 53rd minute for Salah to dispatch and provide a lead to the host.
The Egypt captain scored another penalty late in the game to seal the emphatic victory and continue the club’s form. The Reds beat Paris Saint-Germain 0-1 in the Champions League Round of 16’s first tie away at Parc des Princes.
Liverpool players celebrate the penalty goal from Mohamed Salah against Southampton. Darwin Nunez won the penalty for the Reds during the 3-1 Premier League victory at Anfield.
Liverpool players celebrate the penalty goal from Mohamed Salah against Southampton. Darwin Nunez won the penalty for the Reds during the 3-1 Premier League victory at Anfield.
PSG dominated the Reds in that game, with the visitors failing to find a good outlet to relieve constant pressure. Liverpool head coach Arne Slot introduced Nunez in the second half to provide that outlet and exploit the big spaces.
Nunez capitalized and showcased his hold-up play against strong PSG defenders, earning an assist for Harvey Elliott’s late-winning goal. The Uruguayan international faced severe criticism after missing an open chance during the Aston Villa draw in the Premier League. However, Nunez has continuously pitched in and made several game-changing impacts for the Reds this season.
Speaking to the media after the victory (via Liverpoolfc.com), Salah highlighted that Darwin is a crucial player for Liverpool despite his inconsistencies. He said:
“Very important. He [Nunez] is a very important player for us. I’m always there talking to him. He is very important, we need him. And you saw him also in the last game against PSG, he was very important when he came in, making a difference. Good for him.”
The 32-year-old Liverpool legend has continuously backed Nunez throughout his struggles, calling him “the player he enjoys playing with most”. Nunez and Salah’s partnership has allowed the Egyptian to score many goals and provide assists in return.
More Liverpool News:
Despite struggling to hold his place in the starting lineup, Nunez has seven goals and six assists in all competitions. The Uruguayan international has played 38 games in all competitions but has started only 17 times.