Mike Dean reacts as Darwin Nunez ‘should have been sent off’ for Liverpool
Liverpool hero Darwin Nunez won the game against Brentford but “should have been sent off”, according to Kris Boyd.
The Reds appeared set to drop points for a third consecutive match as the game remained goalless deep into stoppage time. However, Nunez came to the rescue with two late goals to secure a dramatic victory.
Earlier in the game, Nunez frustrated the manager by missing a gilt-edged chance, but he ultimately proved to be the match-winner.
Boyd and discussed his performance on Sky Sports Soccer Saturday, with former Premier League referee Mike Dean agreeing he was fortunate to avoid being sent off late on.
Boyd began by saying (18 January, 5:16pm): “He should have been sent off as well. That just sums him up.
“He had a late tackle after that [his goal], he’s already been booked for taking his top off, he then catches him, it should’ve been a second yellow card.
“The 25 mins he was on it had absolutely everything. Liverpool won’t care.”
Dean replied, “I think it could have been [a second yellow], he’s caught Collins late on the side of the ankle. I wouldn’t have been surprised if it’d been a second yellow.
“We said before the show he just comes on and causes problems, he gets stuck in. I think he runs the risk sometimes but he’s got away with one today in my opinion.”
Liverpool will be happy to get away with the victory
Football Insider Verdict
Nunez may frustrate many with his performances, but his display against Brentford could prove crucial by the end of the season, particularly as the title race intensifies.
His two stoppage-time goals ensured Slot’s side gained valuable ground on Arsenal, who had dropped points at home in a 2-2 draw against Aston Villa.
Although the Uruguay international has made 27 appearances for the team this season, he has only started seven league matches. His relatively limited minutes have sparked speculation about a potential move away, with Liverpool considering selling the 25-year-old.
Some fans even seemed open to the idea of selling Nunez if it meant bringing in a new attacker to strengthen the squad, but those rumours have since quieted.
His aggressive playing style has been a hallmark of his game ever since his debut in the Premier League and is likely something that will never leave his approach.
Both of his finishes were taken with aplomb and demonstrated his ability to be a game-changer, which might cause the manager to rethink his role in the squad moving forward, but Slot may be fortunate to have Nunez available and not out through suspension.
In other news, Liverpool and Man United are in a race to sign this Premier League star.
For more news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.