Liverpool’s Premier League title hopes took a major hit on Wednesday night as they fell to a 2-0 defeat against their Merseyside rivals Everton. The loss marked Jurgen Klopp’s first defeat at Goodison Park in his final Merseyside derby, and Jamie Carragher has been quick to criticize Darwin Nunez for missing a gilt-edged chance to equalize before half-time.
Speaking after the game, Carragher said: “The chance that Nunez misses before half-time, that is unforgivable at this level. That is not acceptable at this level, certainly when Liverpool are going for the title.”
Nunez has become a cult favorite among certain fans, but his record of 33 goals in 92 games, coupled with his reputation for remarkable misses, has raised doubts over his future. Klopp is leaving this summer, with Feyenoord head coach Arne Slot the heavy favorite to succeed him, and Carragher believes the incoming manager could look to replace the striker after two inconsistent seasons.
“I think there is a question to ask,” he added. “You want him to do well because there is so much that you like because he gives everything, he runs and causes trouble and gets the odd goal and gets an assist.
“But after two years when Liverpool this season are going to the title and those big games, you need your man to score away at Old Trafford, away at Goodison, in the European game at Atalanta. There is no time to waste, this is not October or November. This is the business end He’s not doing enough to win you the biggest trophies so there is a big decision to be made on him”
Carragher’s comments highlight the growing belief that Nunez may not be the long-term solution to Liverpool’s striking problems. With Klopp’s departure looming, the incoming manager will have a big decision to make on the Uruguayan’s future. Whether Nunez can turn things around and prove his worth to the club remains to be seen, but his performance against Everton has certainly raised doubts about his ability to lead Liverpool to silverware.
