Lee Dixon, the former Arsenal defender, has expressed his confidence in the potential impact of Darwin Nunez at Liverpool, advocating for the Uruguayan forward to feature more prominently in Jurgen Klopp’s starting lineup.
Dixon’s Stamp of Approval
Dixon’s endorsement comes amidst Liverpool’s impressive start to the 2023/24 campaign, marked by four consecutive victories following an initial draw at Stamford Bridge. Dixon told NBC Sports:
“I’ve got a thing for Nunez, I think he’s going to be good. I do. I like Gakpo as well. I also like Diaz. So, Diaz, Nunez and Salah, that’s what I’d do. But all good sides, you’ve got to be able to mix it about a bit.”
Nunez: Catalyst for Liverpool Attack
Klopp has been strategic in his approach to the front three, with Mohamed Salah being the sole constant on the right flank.
While Nunez has started only once this season, his impactful contributions off the bench, notably a memorable brace against Newcastle, have not gone unnoticed.
Dixon contends that Nunez should be deployed alongside Salah and Luis Diaz to maximize Liverpool’s attacking potential.
Nunez’s Promising Transformation
The 23-year-old Nunez faced challenges in his debut season at Liverpool, struggling to find consistency in front of goal.
However, early indications in the current campaign suggest an improved level of composure and effectiveness in the final third.
Dixon believes that Nunez’s unique attributes offer Klopp a valuable focal point in the attack.
Nunez: A Vital Addition
Despite stiff competition within Liverpool’s deep pool of forward options, Nunez’s physicality, speed, and proficiency in the box add a crucial dimension to the team’s offensive strategy.
The Uruguayan, secured in a record-breaking £85 million deal from Benfica, demonstrated his lethal goal-scoring prowess with 34 goals in the 2021-22 season for the Portuguese side.
Dynamic Trio Boosts Liverpool’s Depth
In Dixon’s view, a front three comprising Diaz, Nunez, and Salah presents a formidable combination of pace and quality.
While this may relegate players like Diogo Jota and Cody Gakpo to the bench in a conventional 4-3-3 formation, such depth is essential for Liverpool’s ambitions across all competitions this season.
Nunez’s potential for consistency, Dixon suggests, hinges on securing a sustained run of starts.
As Liverpool prepares to face LASK in the Europa League, the selection of the starting XI remains a topic of anticipation.
Dixon’s endorsement of Nunez underscores the exciting prospects that lie ahead for Liverpool’s attacking force this season.