Darwin Nunez’s Struggles: What Next for Liverpool’s Number Nine?

Liverpool were left hugely frustrated after their 3-3 draw with Newcastle United on Wednesday evening, but one player has been at the front of criticism once again.

That would be the Reds’ number nine, Darwin Nunez, who massively struggled in the game in all areas. With just three goals and two assists in 18 appearances so far this season, patience seems to be starting to run thin amongst supporters.

Former Liverpool midfielder Jermaine Pennant spoke to Anfield Index, who gave his thoughts on the Uruguayan’s struggles…

Nunez’s Struggles ‘Not a Surprise’

“It doesn’t surprise me anymore,” began Pennant, “You can get unbelievable moments from him but he misses far too many sitters, and there were two last night!” The forward has two big chances to get on the scoresheet last night, with the first coming from a Cody Gakpo header across the box, which he failed to get on the end of.

Another chance came when the ball was bouncing around the Newcastle United penalty area, before Nunez snatched at his chance and shanked the ball well wide of the target. His overall play was nowhere near good enough either, with just a 67% pass success rate and losing possession on eight occasions, as well as those two big chances missed.

“How much longer can you keep hoping that he turns it around? I’m not convinced and I’ve already lost all hope on that front.”

Diogo Jota’s Return: Sooner Rather Than Later

With Diogo Jota being sidelined through injury for the past two months, it has been a real opportunity for Nunez to make that central position his own, but it hasn’t worked out. In fact, he has managed just one goal and one assist in the Premier League since Jota suffered that rib injury against Chelsea.

“If you’re looking for another forward to get 20 goals, you may as well look at Diogo Jota, despite his injury problems,” said Pennant.

Even with those two months out, Jota has managed more goal involvements than the Uruguayan this season and he undoubtedly provides more in his all-round game. I’m sure Arne Slot is desperate to get the Portuguese forward back into his starting lineup in the near future.

Before that though, Liverpool face Everton in the Merseyside Derby and I think it’s fair to expect Nunez to miss out on that one. Luis Diaz has seemingly overtaken him in the pecking order for that central role, which speaks volumes.