Liverpool hero John Barnes insists Darwin Nunez can match the impact of Manchester City striker Erling Haaland.
During Nunez’ suspension, Man City striker Erling Haaland has bagged seven goals – including consecutive hat-tricks – as Pep Guardiola’s side take early command of the title race alongside Arsenal.
“I think Nunez can have a similar impact that Haaland has had at Man City, because the problem that they’ve got is that they’ve struggled with putting someone in the box too often,” Barnes told BonusCodeBets. “You can see what Man City have done with getting the ball in the box for Haaland. They could do the same for Nunez and he will capitalise on that.
“So while they’ll miss Mane and what he had, I think Nunez brings something extra in terms of being a target man who can get headers in and bringing the ball into play, he’ll be a great finisher.”
Nunez is back for the trip to Everton after dismissal against Crystal Palace.
“I don’t think Liverpool have any fear about his hot-headedness,” Barnes added. “Nunez is going to have to learn that the Premier League is very physical and people are going to try and upset him. It doesn’t matter whether it’s against Everton or against Norwich, anyone.
“I don’t think it’s the fact to hold him back, but obviously Klopp will make that decision and if he holds him back, it won’t be because he feels like he’s going to get sent off, it’s because he feels that in this game maybe Firmino or somebody else will get the chance.”
