Darwin Nunez, the Liverpool striker, last found the back of the net during their 2-1 victory over Bournemouth in the EFL Cup fourth round on November 1st.
Liverpool’s Darwin Nunez is “brimming with energy,” and his value extends beyond his goal-scoring, according to Pep Lijnders, the team’s assistant manager.
The 24-year-old Uruguayan, who joined from Benfica in 2022 for an initial £64m fee, netted 15 times for Liverpool last season.
This season, Nunez has scored seven goals but has gone 10 matches without scoring as Liverpool prepares to host West Ham in the upcoming Carabao Cup quarter-final on Wednesday.
Lijnders emphasized, “Darwin is having a far better season than the previous one.”
“It would be terribly unfair to assess players solely on their goals. When we hit our goals or were in the thick of the competition, it was always a team effort.
“The chemistry between Mo [Salah] and Darwin is evident in the way they assist each other and work together. Darwin’s defensive work, his chase-downs, and counter-pressing are just as important.
“His ability to hold the line when we’re under pressure is crucial. He’s still adapting, but I’m impressed with his energy. That’s the kind of passion our fans and team need. He’s only going to improve from here.
Nunez’s most recent goal for Jurgen Klopp’s team was in their narrow victory at Bournemouth in early November.
Lijnders added, “Goals often come naturally when you’re creating chances. We’re doing that, and sometimes luck plays a part. He knows he has our trust; that’s the best support we can offer him.”
Liverpool, who first won the League Cup in 1981 against the Hammers after a replay, are now aiming for their 14th final and a tenth win.
Injuries will keep Alexis Mac Allister, Joel Matip, Andy Robertson, and Diogo Jota from participating against David Moyes’ team. Ryan Gravenberch, however, is available for selection after being subbed out in the recent goalless draw with Manchester United.
West Ham Aiming for a Surprise Win
West Ham faces a challenge with illnesses affecting the team, impacting the final selection for their rare Anfield visit, seeking only their second win there in 60 years.
While Michail Antonio remains sidelined due to injury, the Hammers’ assistant manager, Billy McKinlay, remains optimistic about advancing to the semi-finals for the first time in ten years.
McKinlay remarked, “Winning breeds hunger for more success and instills a belief in our capabilities. Our performance in the Europa League and reaching the Carabao Cup quarter-finals demonstrate our current strong form. We’re eager to keep improving and hungry for more victories.”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Liverpool West Ham EFL Cup
Who is Darwin Nunez and what is his current form for Liverpool?
Darwin Nunez is a 24-year-old Uruguayan forward who joined Liverpool from Benfica in 2022 for an initial fee of £64m. Although he scored 15 goals last season, this term he has netted seven but is currently 10 games without a goal. Liverpool’s assistant manager, Pep Lijnders, emphasizes that Nunez’s value to the team extends beyond just scoring goals, highlighting his energy and contribution to the team’s collective efforts.
What are Liverpool’s achievements and aspirations in the League Cup?
Liverpool, having won their first League Cup in 1981 after a replay against West Ham, are now aiming to reach their 14th League Cup final and secure a 10th win in the tournament. They are set to face West Ham in the Carabao Cup quarter-final, with a strong desire to continue their legacy in the competition.
What challenges are West Ham United facing ahead of their clash with Liverpool?
West Ham United is dealing with illnesses within their squad, which may affect the final team selection for their match against Liverpool at Anfield. Additionally, they are without injured forward Michail Antonio. However, assistant manager Billy McKinlay expresses confidence in the team’s capability, drawing on their good run in the Europa League and their journey to the Carabao Cup quarter-finals.
More about Liverpool West Ham EFL Cup
- Liverpool FC Official Website
- Carabao Cup Official Page
- Premier League News
- UEFA Europa League Updates
- Transfer Market Player Profiles
- EFL Cup History and Records
- West Ham United Official Site
- Football Statistics and Analysis
- English Football Association Website
- Sports News and Updates
6 comments
McKinlay seems confident, but can we really take down Liverpool at Anfield? It’s been ages since we won there.
EFL Cup’s always full of surprises, wouldn’t be shocked if West Ham pulls off an upset.
Liverpool’s injury list is worrying, no Robertson or Jota? that could be trouble for them against the Hammers.
darwin nunez is a great player but he needs to find the net more often, Liverpool paid a fortune for him!
Wow, Nunez really needs to step up his game, been a bit quiet lately eh? Liverpool’s got high hopes, fingers crossed for em!
I’m loving Lijnders’ take on Nunez. It’s not all about goals, right? teamwork makes the dream work!