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Former England forward Lianne Sanderson has criticized Darwin Nunez, claiming he is “not good enough” for Liverpool though she admits he would still make it into Manchester United’s lineup.

Nunez has faced renewed scrutiny after his shocking miss in Liverpool’s 2-2 draw against Aston Villa with the game finely balanced, the Uruguayan squandered a golden opportunity to put his team ahead, failing to convert from close range.

Liverpool boss Arne Slot addressed the miss, acknowledging it was on Nunez’s weaker foot but still a huge chance “very unlucky,” Slot said. “I was hoping he’d get another because a player like him probably wouldn’t miss twice.”

However, Slot was more frustrated with Nunez’s reaction, revealing that the striker’s disappointment affected his performance.

“I can accept misses, but what was harder to accept was his reaction afterward. He wasn’t himself,” Slot admitted.

Since joining Liverpool from Benfica in 2022 for a potential club-record £85 million, Nunez has struggled to consistently deliver.

Despite showing flashes of brilliance, his finishing remains inconsistent, fueling criticism about his long-term future at Anfield.

Sanderson believes the 24-year-old doesn’t meet Liverpool’s standards but would still outperform Manchester United’s Rasmus Hojlund.

“He’s got all the attributes pace, aerial ability but he just isn’t that guy,” she told talkSPORT. “Liverpool gave him a chance, but now they need someone else.”

Hojlund, who moved to United for £72 million from Atalanta, endured a mixed debut season with 16 goals in all competitions.

However, with only two league goals this campaign, his struggles mirror Nunez’s inconsistency.

When talkSPORT presenter Hugh Woozencroft said he would choose Nunez over Hojlund, Sanderson agreed. “That’s my point there are levels. I don’t think Nunez is awful, but he’s not Liverpool quality.”

Nunez was linked with a move to Saudi Arabia in January, but Slot opted to keep him as Liverpool push for Premier League and Champions League glory.

Meanwhile, ex-Liverpool midfielder Dietmar Hamann recently suggested Nunez would have been a great addition for Arsenal, who have been hit by injuries.