Colombia head coach Néstor Lorenzo has defended Luis Diaz’s record with the national team amid criticism that he has not replicated his club form on the international stage.
Diaz has recently been recognized as part of the best wing pairing in the Premier League, despite some negative press in Colombia.
The 27-year-old has been in impressive form for Liverpool, scoring three goals and providing an assist in their first three Premier League games this season.
This strong performance has contributed to a perfect start under new head coach Arne Slot.
Diaz’s previous lack of goal contributions compared to his Liverpool teammates had drawn criticism, but he has shown improvement since last Christmas.
In a recent World Cup qualifying match, Díaz scored a late equalizer in a 1-1 draw against Peru, demonstrating his value to the national team.
Lorenzo has firmly backed his captain, emphasizing that Diaz is now delivering for Colombia as well.
“The stars are always on everyone’s lips and are observed in a particular and more intense way,” he said to Colombian news outlet Red+ Noticias.
“Three or four months ago the issue was why he didn’t score goals in the national team and now he has become our top scorer in the qualifiers.
“We said that he is going to score goals, and he is scoring them.
“I am not worried, for me Luis is doing a good job, let’s just let him get on with it because he does it well.”
Luis Diaz was linked with a move away from Anfield this summer, especially as Liverpool were close to signing Anthony Gordon from Newcastle United before the Magpies cancelled the £75 million transfer.
Diaz’s strong start to the season has been crucial in keeping Liverpool competitive with reigning champions Manchester City at the top of the Premier League table.
His performance was highlighted by a memorable 3-0 victory over Manchester United in their last match.
Former City striker Sergio Agüero believes Liverpool have already demonstrated their status as title contenders, even after the departure of long-time manager Jurgen Klopp at the end of last season.
“Liverpool started really strong, especially considering the end of the Klopp era,” he said.
“They’ve proved to still be one of the teams to beat to get the title, just like it has been over the past few seasons
“But then again, it’s not about the start of the season, it’s about landing the finish.
“The Premier League is all about consistency, so that’s the element to make note of.”
Aguero added: “Diaz and Salah have more tenure in the Premier League and more time together than (Manchester City wingers) Savinho and Doku.
“That makes it harder to compare.
“However, neither of (Doku or Savinho) is the best pair in modern times.
“Salah and Diaz are a scoring combination, they can assist well, and they are very in sync with their team-mates.
“Doku and Savinho need time, but their potential is through the roof.
“Diaz had proven his calibre time and time again.
“In any case, I think Colombia grew because of Luis’s own experience in Europe.
“It took their whole team to another level.”
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