Liverpool will be without Darwin Nunez for the game against Newcastle later this month after the striker’s crazy red card.
The Reds’ big summer signing started for the first time on Monday night, leading the line against Crystal Palace after an impressive cameo off the bench last week.
He got a goal and an assist away to Fulham, and more than deserved to start Liverpool’s second game of the season.
However, a moment of madness meant Nunez was sent off on his first Premier League start at Anfield. The 23-year-old headbutted Palace defender Joachim Andersen, and was immediately dismissed by Paul Tierney.
There was no disputing the decision, as Nunez lost his cool up against an experienced defender. It means the Uruguayan will miss the next three domestic games, which includes Eddie Howe’s side heading to Merseyside.
Darwin Nunez suspended against Newcastle after red card
The £64million man will miss Liverpool’s next three games. First up is the trip to Manchester United, then they face Bournemouth. The third and final game against Newcastle, and that will certainly be significant to Toon fans.
Nunez isn’t just Liverpool’s mega summer signing to us. He’s the man who Amanda Staveley and co wanted to bring to St James’ Park.
The Magpies scouted Nunez ‘extensively‘, and wanted him in January and this summer. However, his form for Benfica earned him a bigger move, meaning Champions League football awaited.
That’s what he will get at Liverpool, although his start under Jurgen Klopp is proving to be a mixed bag. His crazy headbutt on Andersen has ruined what could have been a bright start.
As for Newcastle, we won’t get the chance to see the player we desperately wanted to sign up close. If he’s as good as our scouts think he is, that might be a good thing.
Instead, Eddie Howe’s side will have to find a way of stopping Roberto Firmino or Diogo Jota depending on his fitness.
Receive a digest of our best Newcastle content each week direct to your mailbox
