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Liverpool missing Diaz and Nunez impact, says Rooney
TL;DR
Wayne Rooney attributes Liverpool's struggles this season to the absence of key forwards Luis Diaz and Darwin Nunez, who previously provided aggressive pressing. Liverpool aims to secure Champions League qualification while facing Everton this Sunday.
Key points
- Wayne Rooney comments on Liverpool's struggles this season
- Absence of Luis Diaz and Darwin Nunez affects team performance
- Liverpool aims for Champions League qualification
- Match against Everton is crucial for both teams
LiverpoolEvertonLuis DiazDarwin Nunez
[Getty Images]
Former Everton and England striker Wayne Rooney says Liverpool's struggles this season are down to them missing forward players who used to "press you aggressively" and make games difficult for opponents.
Liverpool travel to their Merseyside rivals' Hill Dickinson Stadium for the first time on Sunday, hoping to boost their hopes of securing Champions League football for next season while putting a dent in Everton's charge for Europe.
Speaking on The Wayne Rooney Show, Rooney said: "I think some of the players they lost, with [Diogo] Jota, it was such a sad loss to everyone," Rooney said. "[Luis] Diaz, even [Darwin] Nunez was a nuisance and he wasn't great. When you go to Anfield, you used to have it with Stevie [Gerrard], with Dirk Kuyt, they used to press you aggressively. I think that's what Nunez and Diaz did. They've lost that a little bit.
"I think Van Dijk needs help as well, where Van Dijk's been the one to help his other centre-backs over his career at Liverpool. It's probably the first time where he's needed help from those around him.
"And then the full-backs changing with Trent [Alexander-Arnold] and [Andy] Robertson not playing. Now all of a sudden he's looking around the whole backline thinking, 'I need some help here'."
Q&A
How have injuries to Luis Diaz and Darwin Nunez affected Liverpool's performance?
Injuries to Luis Diaz and Darwin Nunez have diminished Liverpool's aggressive pressing style, contributing to their struggles this season.
What did Wayne Rooney say about Liverpool's missing players?
Wayne Rooney noted that the absence of players like Luis Diaz and Darwin Nunez has impacted Liverpool's ability to challenge opponents effectively.
What is at stake for Liverpool in their upcoming match against Everton?
Liverpool is looking to boost their chances of securing Champions League football for next season in their match against Everton.
