Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola says Liverpool’s ability to be “clinical” proved to be the deciding factor in the 4-0 win over the Cherries at the weekend.

Speaking in his post-match press conference, Iraola claimed that Jurgen Klopp’s side are right up there with Manchester City and Arsenal in terms of their ruthlessness in front of goal:

“I think Manchester City, Arsenal and Liverpool have all been really good against us. There’s a reason they are the top three teams. Whenever they have a chance, they are clinical and when you make a mistake, they make you pay for it.”

Braces from Darwin Nunez and Diogo Jota ensured that the Reds secured the three points at the Vitality Stadium, restoring the gap to the chasing pack at the top of the Premier League table.

Stats show that Liverpool could still improve their finishing

According to Understat, Klopp’s men have accrued an xG of 47.84 this season, which is slightly above the 47 they have actually scored.

That suggests that the Reds haven’t been quite as clinical as they should have been. The game against Manchester United at home, and even the victory over Newcastle at Anfield, demonstrate how wasteful they have been at times.

Nunez hits his straps

Darwin Nunez has missed 18 big chances in the Premier League this campaign, which is the most of any player. However, he took both of his goals superbly against Bournemouth.

We have seen what the Uruguayan international is capable of in front of goal before. His expertly taken brace versus Newcastle back in August shows he can be a top-drawer finisher. Consistency has been the club record signing’s main issue.

In Mo Salah’s absence, though, Nunez seems to be stepping up to the plate, along with Jota, who has also been in outstanding form over the past few weeks.