Darwin Nunez has hit back at the criticism he has faced after struggling in Liverpool's opening two pre-season matches. The Uruguayan played the final 30 minutes of the Reds' 4-0 defeat against Manchester United on Tuesday before he was subbed on at half-time against Crystal Palace as Jurgen Klopp effectively fielded two sides.
However, Nunez was withdrawn after barely half an hour following an uninspiring display. In the clash with United, Nunez missed a sitter after Mohamed Salah's effort hit the post, with the forward blazing over the rebound from eight yards.
He went close to scoring late on with a rasping half-volley that was well kept out by Tom Heaton, but his unofficial debut ended in disappointment.
There was growing optimism that Nunez would improve against a weakened Palace side, but it was not meant to be as the 23-year-old failed to impress once again.