Nunez looks a more polished player this season and is part of a forward line that can turn games in an instant
Darwin Nunez has finally adjusted to life at Liverpool. It is equally true that Liverpool have adjusted to him.
Since Nunez became Anfield’s most expensive purchase, Klopp has taken on the role of a gem cutter, applying the necessary polish to a striker who in his debut campaign only occasionally looked the right fit.
His match-winning double at Newcastle United earlier this season felt like a turning point. The star turn which effectively saw off one of the most accomplished West Ham sides to visit Anfield in 40 years carried an equally exciting maturity, the Uruguayan demonstrating why he is currently in possession of Liverpool’s No.9 jersey. The headline grabber was his wonderful 59th minute goal, receiving Alex Mac Allister’s sumptuous pass to execute a volley of similar class to give his side a game-changing lead. Nunez was also heavily involved in the move which led to Mohamed Salah’s first-half penalty.
As pleasing for Klopp was the sight of Nunez’s terrier-like chasing of Lucas Paqueta shortly after scoring, the manager celebrating the retrieval of possession as heartily as any of his team’s three goals.