Alan Shearer sends 'world-class' message to Darwin Nunez, needs the backing of Liverpool fans

By Ben Evans

Liverpool face a tough test in the Premier League on Saturday, as they travel to high-flying Brighton.

Just one point separates the two sides, and they’ve already played out an entertaining 3-3 draw this season.

Speaking to The Athletic, Alan Shearer has been talking about one Liverpool player in particular.

Jurgen Klopp’s side haven’t been playing at the levels that Liverpool fans would expect.

Qualifying for the Champions League now seems to be their main aim this season, with a title challenge out of the question.

Liverpool’s squad has changed that much over the last 12 months, with Sadio Mane’s departure the biggest loss.

However, much of the talk this season has been about his replacement; Darwin Nunez.

The Uruguayan arrived at Anfield for a huge fee, and has had a mixed start to life at the club.

A goal, assist and red card in his first two games summed up Nunez’s chaotic nature.

He’s missed plenty of chances this season, but Shearer has backed Nunez to be world-class one day.

Shearer believes he just needs the continued support of the Anfield faithful.

Nunez could be world-class – Shearer

In his column for The Athletic, Shearer said: “The point is, he has plenty of time to become the world-class striker that all his attributes suggest he could be and he has plenty of knowledgeable people at Liverpool to help him get there, including the fans who continue to back him.”

Watching Nunez can sometimes be a frustrating experience.

The 23-year-old’s work-rate is extraordinary, and he’s a nightmare for defenders to play against.

His speed and power are very impressive, and his erratic decision-making makes him very hard to read.

His relationship with Mohamed Salah is developing every game, and there will be hope that he can link up well with new signing Cody Gakpo.

Liverpool fans will be hoping that Nunez can become world-class, and as long as he keeps working hard, will continue to back him.

However, he will still need to regularly provide goals and assists, as Klopp’s backing of the young forward won’t last forever.