Paul Merson explains why there’s no way Arne Slot should start Darwin Nunez for Liverpool against Ipswich

As Liverpool prepares to face Ipswich Town on Saturday, fans are hopeful for another Premier League victory. Fresh off impressive wins over Brentford and Lille, the Reds are on a roll and eager to maintain their momentum. Anfield will be buzzing with anticipation, as many believe Liverpool can comfortably handle relegation-threatened Ipswich.

While the majority of Liverpool fans are brimming with confidence, Arne Slot, the team’s manager, is keeping his feet firmly on the ground. Despite their recent triumphs, Slot knows the importance of professional focus. He has already made strategic squad rotations during the win over Lille on Tuesday, ensuring that key players are fresh and ready for action against the Tractor Boys.

One key player whose inclusion is a point of contention is Darwin Nunez. After two solid performances, including goals at Brentford and a strong showing against Lille, the question on many fans’ minds is whether Nunez should start against Ipswich. Given his recent resurgence, it would seem logical for him to be given another chance to lead the line. However, not everyone agrees with this assessment.

Former Arsenal player and pundit Paul Merson has voiced his opinion, urging Slot to drop Nunez for the Ipswich game. Despite Nunez’s electrifying cameo against Brentford, Merson remains unconvinced that the 25-year-old should start as Liverpool’s central forward. Merson believes that Nunez’s presence on the field affects Mohamed Salah’s game, particularly in terms of positioning and freedom of movement.

“I know Darwin Nunez produced an incredible cameo off the bench against Brentford,” Merson said in an interview with Sportskeeda. “But I’m still not sure he should start this game as the centre-forward. Mohamed Salah is a better player when Nunez is not in the team!”

Merson elaborated on his reasoning, explaining that when Nunez occupies the central striker role, it causes Salah to become more “claustrophobic” in the attacking third. In a fast-paced game like the one against Brentford, Nunez’s dynamism can be a positive force. However, Merson argues that the game against Ipswich is likely to be far more subdued, with the visitors parking the bus and defending deep. In such a scenario, he doesn’t believe Nunez’s style of play would be effective.

While Merson’s views on Nunez’s role are somewhat controversial, it’s important to consider that Liverpool’s attacking prowess can come from multiple sources. Whether Nunez starts or not, the Reds will still have other players capable of making a difference, including Luis Diaz, who has been in good form, and even Federico Chiesa, who could step in if needed.

Despite Merson’s reservations about Nunez, it is widely expected that Liverpool will overpower Ipswich. After suffering a humiliating 6-0 defeat to Manchester City, Ipswich will arrive at Anfield with their spirits low. Liverpool’s depth and attacking options should be more than enough to secure all three points, regardless of who starts up front.

“Ipswich will be downbeat after their thrashing by City, and whether it’s Nunez, Luis Diaz, or even Federico Chiesa through the middle, Liverpool should fancy their chances,” Merson continued.

Looking ahead to the match, many believe the result is almost a foregone conclusion. Liverpool’s attacking arsenal is formidable, and Ipswich, while capable of a surprise, will struggle against one of the Premier League’s most powerful sides.

As for the match prediction, Merson is confident in a Liverpool victory. “If Liverpool turn up with a good attitude, they should win this game quite easily,” he said. His scoreline prediction is a dominant 3-0 win for the Reds.

In terms of team selection, Arne Slot will likely focus on maintaining the same level of professionalism and composure that has defined his tenure so far. The manager has consistently rotated his squad to keep players fresh, and given the quick turnaround between games, he will undoubtedly make tactical decisions based on fitness and form.

Liverpool’s midfield will also play a crucial role in breaking down Ipswich’s defense. Players like Dominik Szoboszlai and Alexis Mac Allister will be key in creating chances and dictating the tempo of the game. With their ability to control possession and pick apart defensive setups, they could provide the ammunition needed for Liverpool’s forwards to shine.

As Slot continues to work on integrating his tactics and ensuring the players are in peak condition, Liverpool fans can expect a well-organized and clinical performance against Ipswich. The priority, as always, will be securing the three points, but Slot will also be looking for a convincing display to keep the team’s momentum going as the season progresses.

While there will always be debates over starting lineups and tactical decisions, the bigger picture for Liverpool remains clear: they must keep pushing for the top spots in the Premier League. With Manchester City and other top teams continuing to challenge for the title, every win counts, and Saturday’s game is no exception.

Slot will be keen to avoid complacency, especially after the victory over Lille, where he rotated the squad but still managed to secure an important three points. Against a team like Ipswich, whose lowly position in the league makes them a potential banana skin, Liverpool cannot afford to take their foot off the gas.

For now, the focus will be on maintaining consistency. Liverpool has shown they can deliver results under Slot, and while some may question individual player selections, the overall team dynamic has been solid. Whether Nunez starts or not, Liverpool’s attacking potential remains high, and with the squad at Slot’s disposal, the Reds have more than enough talent to get the job done.

As fans await the match on Saturday, there is a sense of cautious optimism. Liverpool’s recent form, combined with the quality in the squad, suggests that a comfortable win is on the cards. For the players, it’s all about focusing on the task at hand and continuing to build on their recent successes.

In conclusion, while Paul Merson has his doubts about Darwin Nunez starting against Ipswich, most fans will trust Arne Slot’s judgment on team selection. Liverpool will be determined to maintain their strong form and prove that they are capable of challenging for the title. Whether Nunez starts or comes off the bench, the focus remains on securing three points and continuing their push towards the top of the Premier League table.