Danny Murphy has told Anfield Watch that he feels sorry for Liverpool star Diogo Jota after struggling to make the starting XI towards the end of the season – claiming the Portuguese ace has been “phenomenal” for the Reds.
Jota, 25, ended the season with 29 goal involvements in 55 games despite starting only 39 of those matches under Jurgen Klopp. His game time was reduced towards the end of the season, often coming off the bench.
Such as, the Champions League final, Premier League games against Tottenham and Manchester United, and the Carabao Cup final. Now, Liverpool have brought in Darwin Nunez, his game time might diminish even more.
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Yes, Liverpool have sold Sadio Mane but Nunez is more of a striker – Jota’s favoured position in the front three. Murphy branded the £90k-a-week (Spotrac) ace as “phenomenal” but feels sympathy for the ex-Wolves attacker.
“I feel for him a little bit because he didn’t start a few big games towards the end of last season. His contribution since he’s come in has been phenomenal. What do you want from an attacking player? Goals and assists. He offers both.”
Murphy feels sorry for Liverpool star Jota
Jota has been sensational at times for Liverpool. Whether that is from the right, left or up top, the ex-Porto man has always been a threat for Liverpool. But the signing of Nunez will limit his chances.
Indeed, judging Liverpool’s attacking options as things stand, the front three is Mo Salah on the right, Luis Diaz on the left and Nunez through the middle. If Nunez struggles to begin with, Jota might get his chance.
But Jota will hardly be under-used during the 2022-23 campaign. The Reds will be targeting another shot at the quadruple after winning the FA Cup and Carabao Cup last term. Plenty of games for Jota to make an impact.
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