Liverpool star Mo Salah had to show razor-sharp reactions to ensure teammate Darwin Nunez didn’t lash out at Luke Shaw during their clash against Manchester United.
On Sunday afternoon, Jurgen Klopp’s men inflicted United’s worst defeat since 1931 as they took Erik ten Hag’s side to the cleaners with a stunning performance.
Two goals from Salah, Nunez, and Cody Gakpo plus a goal from Roberto Firmino secured a huge 7-0 win for Liverpool over their rivals who were left shellshocked as they walked off the Anfield turf.
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During the match, with Liverpool 4-0 up in the 68th minute, United defender Shaw pulled Nunez to the ground and appeared to slightly kick out at the Uruguayan.
Nunez was visibly furious and was ready to confront the England left-back but in stepped Salah to calm things.
Liverpool’s talisman reacted quickly and held Nunez back to make sure he didn’t do anything that would risk him getting a potential red card from the referee.
Since joining Liverpool from Benfica in the summer, Nunez has built up a reputation for being a hothead after his red card against Crystal Palace on what was his Anfield debut.
The 23-year-old has since knuckled down and worked on his game in a bid to adapt to Klopp’s style as quickly as possible.
In recent weeks, the Uruguayan’s performances have been improving, and after his brace against United, former Liverpool man Jamie Carragher was impressed.
He said on Sky Sports: “I thought Gakpo was outstanding. Mo Salah was his electric self. Nunez, every time you watch him play it’s always electric.
“He’s had a lot of criticism for missing big chances. At times, yes, he’s got to be more clinical but two at home to United and some of the goals he’s got this season, it’s like it doesn’t feel right now watching Liverpool without Nunez and the physicality he gives the team.”
Liverpool will now have to back up their win over United as they look to take all three points against Bournemouth on Saturday afternoon.
Topics: Manchester United, Liverpool, Darwin Nunez, Mohamed Salah, Luke Shaw, Football
Marcus Chan