Steve Nicol defends Liverpool’s decision to sell Luis Diaz
When it comes to forwards, outcomes can be uncertain. Liverpool decided not to keep Diaz, opting instead to extend Salah’s contract by two years. While this decision seemed reasonable at the time, it has sparked different views now.
Nicol discussed this on ESPN, stating, “You’re spending money on Isak and Wirtz. You have Gakpo, and you’re being offered nearly 70 million for a 29-year-old.”
“In hindsight, it’s easy to judge. Looking at how Diaz performed for Liverpool last year and for Bayern now, selling him for 70 million seemed like a smart deal, especially with Gakpo in the mix and Isak and Wirtz coming in.”
“At the time, not many people raised concerns. None of the so-called experts labeled Liverpool as reckless. No one questioned their choice.”
Initially, with Diaz’s sale and the additions of Wirtz and Isak, the decision faced little criticism. However, Gakpo’s struggle this season makes it seem questionable in hindsight.
Liverpool supporters were excited about signing Florian Wirtz, with strong links to Hugo Ekitike as well.
Steve Nicol says Rio Ngumoha should have started for Liverpool before Wolves
Ngumoha delivered an impressive performance against Wolves, seizing a rare opportunity to start under Arne Slot. He made a significant impact, creating real competition for Gakpo’s position. Nicol, however, believes the lineup change should have happened before the match.
“I would have made the change before today’s game. I would have played Ekitike in the center, Ngumoha on the left, and Gakpo would have sat out. That’s what I would have done,” he mentioned on ESPN.
It seems unlikely Ngumoha will start against Galatasaray due to the challenging atmosphere there.
However, Slot’s decision for the upcoming match against Spurs could provide more insight into how he views Ngumoha for this season.