Darwin Nunez pulls out of Uruguay squad due to hamstring injury

Liverpool striker Darwin Nunez has been forced to withdraw from the Uruguay squad for the upcoming international break due to an injury picked up during the Reds' gruelling FA Cup quarter-final loss against Manchester United.

The 24-year-old forward, who played the entire 120 minutes of the showdown at Old Trafford on Sunday, finished the game feeling "discomfort" in his hamstring.

Speaking to BBC Sport, boss Jurgen Klopp said: "We have some problems. Lucho [Diaz] felt his groin, Darwin [Nunez] hamstring, hopefully not bad, and Cody [Gakpo] twisted his ankle I think, so we will see."

Now, after discussing his condition with Uruguay head coach Marcelo Bielsa, it was jointly decided that Nunez should withdraw from the squad, which is currently meeting in San Sebastián, Spain, ahead of friendlies against the Basque County and the Ivory Coast.

A key player

Nunez, who contributed two assists in Sunday's 4-3 loss, has been an instrumental figure for the Reds this season, featuring in 42 matches across all competitions.

His current tally of 17 goals and 14 assists for Liverpool has been key to his side's aspirations as they pursue a treble.

He has played a major part of his national team, too, representing Uruguay on six occasions during the campaign.

Although Nunez's absence will be felt by Uruguay, this break now offers him an opportunity to focus on his recovery and regain full fitness ahead of a key run of games for Klopp's men.

Liverpool, who are currently in a three-way race for the Premier League title, will be eager to have Nunez back in top form as they aim to secure further silverware this season.

With the Carabao Cup already in the bag, the Reds will need their full squad available if they are also to add the league and Europa League to their trophy collection come May.