Darwin Nunez sent off for headbutt in first Premier League start

Darwin Nunez made a terrible start to his career at Anfield, getting a red card for headbutting Joachim Andersen in the second half of Liverpool's game with Crystal Palace.

Nunez signed for a potential record fee for Liverpool in the summer, essentially replacing Sadio Mane, who moved to Bayern Munich.

He had mixed fortunes in pre season, with some moments of dreadful form mixed with the occasional sight of what fans might be able to get excited by.

The Uruguayan came off the bench to brilliant effect in Liverpool's opening game of the Premier League campaign, against Fulham, and was then handed his first start on Monday night against Palace.

He had two chances in the first half, blasting over the first and then having his shot pushed onto the post, as Wilfried Zaha gave the visitors a surprise lead.

However, in the second half things took a really bad turn for the Benfica forward as he was given his marching orders for landing a headbut on Andersen, after the defender had given him a little shove.

A moment of madness from Darwin Núñez and he's shown a straight red card! 🤯 pic.twitter.com/YAErzuuUKq

— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) August 15, 2022

🟥 Darwin Nunez is only the 2nd Liverpool player to be shown a red card on his home PL debut for the club, after Joe Cole (v Arsenal in August 2010) pic.twitter.com/vb7b3BvkTm

— Sky Sports Statto (@SkySportsStatto) August 15, 2022

Nunez was not happy to make his exit but was implored off by his teammates and his manager, with Jurgen Klopp not looking too pleased with events.

Klopp had already been in the spotlight before the match due to his new signing making his first start for the club.

In part, Nunez was given the nod upfront thanks to injuries, including to Roberto Firmino, leaving the former Benfica man as the only fit striker.

The German was asked about it before the match on Sky Sports, with the manager snapping, "Because we have no other striker...I'm really curious that you see the lineup, prepare an interview and ask me the questions you ask but okay..."

🗣️ "Because we have no other striker" 🤷‍♂️

Jurgen Klopp on why he's handed Darwin Nunez his first Premier League start. pic.twitter.com/fp4eVEmaDm

— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) August 15, 2022

Given that Nunez's red card will now keep him out for three games, including against Manchester United next Monday, it's likely that Klopp will be even more annoyed.

He can't have too many issues with the decision to send his striker for an early bath mind...