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Rio Ferdinand says "we have to be careful" with how people are speaking about Darwin Nunez following his inconsistent start to life at Liverpool.
Nunez, 23, joined Liverpool from Benfica in the summer transfer window and could go on to become the most expensive signing in the club's history, with the deal potentially costing as much as £85m including potential add-ons.
The Uruguay international has caught the eye with his energetic performances up front for Jurgen Klopp's side, although he has also been accused of wastefulness.
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He has had 52 attempts on goal in the Premier League this season but has managed only five goals.
Meanwhile, he has missed more big chances (14) than any other player in the league.
However, he has also hit the woodwork (5) more times than anyone else and has provided a constant threat for Liverpool.
Ferdinand compares Nunez with Forlan
Former Manchester United defender Ferdinand says Nunez "has got something" and believes he could turn out to be a major success.
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Speaking on Vibe with Five, Ferdinand compared Nunez with his fellow Uruguayan, Diego Forlan, who struggled at United before becoming one of the best strikers in European football after leaving Old Trafford.
"We have to be careful when we talk about people like this," said Ferdinand.
"Do you remember, Diego Forlan? He couldn't hit a barn door at Old Trafford.
"He scored against the Scousers. But he couldn't hit a barn door. He goes away and I think he wins the European Golden Boot. I think once or maybe twice. He becomes a great player. A great player for Uruguay and the various clubs he represented.
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"I think Nunez has got something. What I like about him is that he is getting the chances. I would be more concerned if he wasn't getting the chances. He's a young player. He is growing into the game. It's a new league. I think there is more to come from him."
Klopp praises Nunez's 'brilliant' performance
Liverpool boss Klopp likened Nunez's struggles in front of goal to that of Robert Lewandowski during his early years at Borussia Dortmund.
And the Reds boss was full of praise for the striker following Friday's 2-1 win over Leicester, in which Nunez played a part in the winner – an unfortunate second own goal from Foxes defender Wout Faes.
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"It was a brilliant performance tonight," Klopp told Sky Sports.
"People look at stats and whatever but the goal, which was an own goal in the end, was a clear improvement on recent situations, he chipped the ball really good.
"Other moments were also really good. He took out three players with one move before passing to Mohamed Salah. It was really special and I am really happy with that."
In total, Nunez has managed nine goals and three assists in all competitions this season.
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Klopp will be hoping he adds to that tally when Liverpool face Brentford away from home on Monday night.
Featured Image Credit: AlamyTopics: Liverpool, Manchester United, Darwin Nunez, Rio Ferdinand, Diego Forlan, Premier League, Transfers, Football