Sky Sports pundit Jamie Carragher has delivered a blunt assessment of Liverpool striker Darwin Nunez’s future prospects.

The Uruguayan international was one of a number of players who were wasteful in front of goal during the 2-2 draw against Manchester United on Sunday and, speaking after the match, Carragher said he can’t see Nunez ever matching his teammate Mo Salah’s record in front of goal:

“Listen, when you look at Liverpool and namely Nunez, he’s not going to change what he is. He is what he is.”

“He’s going to miss chances, look dangerous at times. But that really clinical edge of the very top players, I don’t think he’s got that and I don’t think he ever will. That’s Mo Salah’s role in the team.”

Nunez has improved this season

While criticisms about the 24-year-old’s finishing are more than justified, the player has definitely made progress during his second year at Anfield.

Nunez has hit the back of the net 18 times, as well as providing 13 assists, which means he is averaging a goal contribution every 1.45 matches. However, for a player that cost £85m, that is the least you would expect.

Liverpool are missing the deadly finishing ability of one player

The Reds’ inability to finish off their chances at Old Trafford could cost them the title in the long run, and they will be rueing the absence of Diogo Jota.

When the Portuguese international has been fit this campaign, he has been absolutely ruthless in front of goal. Manager Jurgen Klopp claims that Jota is closing in on his return, and he should take part in team training this week.

It’s unlikely that he will be available for the clash against Atalanta in the Europa League on Thursday but it will be hoped that he is back on the bench when Liverpool take on Crystal Palace this weekend.