Liverpool’s Darwin Nunez ended an eight-game goal drought as he scored in his side’s 2-1 EFL Cup quarter-final win over Southampton, at St Mary’s Stadium, on Wednesday.
It was a timely score for Nunez as there have been calls for Liverpool to sell the struggling forward, with Alan Shearer and Gary Lineker among his critics.
Nunez scored the opener in the 24th minute, with Harvey Elliott doubling his side’s lead eight minutes later.
Cameron Archer pulled a goal back for the hosts just on the hour mark, but there would be no further change to the score as Liverpool advanced to the semi-finals of the competition.
Happy coach
Liverpool coach Arne Slot was pleased with the performance of his side, as he was able to give some members of the wider squad game time.
"It was a very good and important win. We saw a lot of players that maybe don't start," Slot said.
"We handled it really well and only conceded one or two chances. We have to defend the trophy because the club won it last season."
Liverpool were well worth their win as they reeled off 14 shots at goal in total, to just the six of Southampton.
The Premier League table-toppers also dominated possession with 69% of the ball. Liverpool also delivered 644 passes to the 289 of Southampton.
In other EFL Cup action on the night, Newcastle romped to a 3-1 win over Brentford at St. James’ Park.
Meanwhile Arsenal, came out on top in a five-goal thriller as they claimed a 3-2 win over Crystal Palace at the Emirates Stadium.