Liverpool’s title hopes suffered a significant setback as they succumbed to a 2-0 defeat against Everton in the Merseyside Derby at Goodison Park. The result leaves Jurgen Klopp’s side trailing league leaders Arsenal by seven points with just four games remaining.
Everton, under the management of Sean Dyche, dominated the match from the outset, with Jarrad Branthwaite heading the hosts in front after 27 minutes. Liverpool struggled to create chances throughout the first half, and their hopes of leveling before the break were dashed when Darwin Nunez missed a glaring opportunity.
The Reds’ struggles continued in the second period as Dominic Calvert-Lewin doubled Everton’s lead shortly after the hour mark. Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk admitted that his team was second best on the day and called for his teammates to reflect on their performances.
Jamie Carragher, a former Liverpool defender, was particularly critical of Nunez’s display, suggesting that the Uruguayan may not be the long-term solution for the club up front. Carragher questioned Nunez’s ability to consistently score goals at the highest level and wondered if the club should consider cutting ties with him in the summer.
Liverpool now face an uphill battle to catch Arsenal in the title race. Their remaining fixtures include a trip to face league leaders Arsenal on May 5th, as well as home games against Tottenham and Wolves. Meanwhile, Arsenal has a relatively favorable run-in, with their toughest remaining fixture being a trip to Manchester United on May 12th.
