Klopp 'proud' after draw despite Nunez sending off

Darwin was left to sleep on the moment of wild indiscipline that saw him make an early and undignified exit from his home debut in the premier league

After making the worst possible introduction at Anfield, the new signing will have a restless night before facing the manager.

The incident in which he was sent off will alert the more mischievous defenders in the league that he has a side that will alert them.

It is better to learn your lessons early on in the premier league than it is to be embarrassed by it.

There was argy-bargy between the two players, but Nunez's headbutt sent his opponent to the floor and the referee reached for his red card.

Next week's trip to Manchester United is even more costly for the Reds as they have to juggle injury and travel issues. He won't be able to play against Bournemouth and Newcastle United.

The impression of someone trying just a little to hard to make the big impression was given by Nunez, who volleyed one good chance over at the far post and then bundled another chance against an upright at the end of the first half.

The chastening evening will form the basis of a vital learning experience because of the graphic illustration of a short fuse.

Liverpool's Darwin Nunez sent off
Darwin Nunez became only the second Liverpool player to be sent off in his first Premier League appearance at Anfield after Joe Cole in 2010

When it comes to handling his new forward, who looked shattered as he made his way to the dressing room, Klopp is more likely to use the arm around the shoulder rather than the big stick.

He didn't try to mount a defence or give an excuse for Nunez. The case was not closed.

It was a show of resilience with a numerical disadvantage that gave them the point, but Palace will think they earned it.

There was a sense of anticlimax at the final whistle, with anxious fans already predicting Manchester City's four-point advantage, as they made their way out.

It is nonsensical to talk about this after only two games of the premier league season, but so high has the bar been set by City and so imperious have they looked after the addition of Erling Haaland.

City have put their rivals under a lot of pressure from the start and they know they can't afford any more slip-ups from the first game.

It is early days and the list of injuries to key figures needs to be reduced so that they can hit their stride.

The outstanding display from 19-year-old Harvey Elliott, mature beyond his years, prompting, probing, always demanding the ball and fully deserving of the standing ovation he received when he was substituted, can be seen as a positive sign for the club.

He was the goal scorer and a lot more. He led from the front, scoring a brilliant equaliser four minutes later, making a slalom run past Palace defenders from the left flank before firing home a 20-yard finish.

It has been an undistinguished opening two games for the Reds.

They hope the sight of the Manchester United side they thrashed on two occasions will inspire them next week.

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