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Liverpool manager Arne Slot says he “can’t accept” striker Darwin Nunez’s work-rate in his past two games.
The Uruguay international was a second-half substitute in the win over Wolves on 16 February and the draw at Aston Villa on 19 February, when he missed an open goal.
Nunez did not come off the bench in Sunday’s 2-0 win at Manchester City, which took Liverpool 11 points clear at the top
Analysis by BBC Sport columnist Fara Williams
Darwin Nunez is a frustrating player.
When he came in, he became a fans’ favourite just because of the work-rate that he gives.
But, on the flip side, his composure in front of goal has never been good. When you are at a big club, it is what you are measured on. Is he good enough to be in a Liverpool team that
Liverpool head coach Arne Slot has defended Darwin Nunez by highlighting his all-round impact in the midst of his goal struggles.
The Uruguay forward, 25, has scored just three times in 19 club appearances this season and failed to take a number of chances during Tuesday’s 1-0 Champions League win against Girona.
“For me, he has impact,” said Slot before his Premier League leaders host Fulham on Saturday (15:00 GMT).
It was not just his goal against Bournemouth that caught his manager’s eye, though. Nunez carried out his defensive duties diligently, registering more tackles than any other player on the pitch apart from team-mate Alexis Mac Allister.
“Of course, I play a striker because I like him to score goals – but it also helps if you keep a clean sheet,” added Slot, whose side top the table on goal