"If he sets his mind to it, it can become very big" - Liverpool star Luis Diaz claims PL star can become 'best' in his position

Liverpool star Luis Diaz has showered praise on Aston Villa striker and Colombian teammate Jhon Duran. The 21-year-old has enjoyed a phenomenal start to the season, scoring 12 goals in just 25 appearances.

Duran, who joined Aston Villa from American side Chicago Fire FC during the 2022-23 season, initially took time to adapt to life in Europe. After managing only 12 appearances in his debut campaign, he bursts onto the scene towards the end of the 2023-24 campaign, finishing with eight goals across all competitions.

Following his impressive form at the start of the current season, Duran signed a new contract with Villa, extending his stay until the end of the 2029-30 season. He also made his international debut for Colombia this year and has already earned eight caps for his country.

Diaz, meanwhile, joined Liverpool in 2022 and has been a crucial player for the club, while also solidifying his status as a key figure for the Colombian national team. The Reds winger believes that Duran has the potential to become one of the best forwards in the world.

“From day one that I met him, that I dealt with him and that I saw him play, I already knew the conditions and qualities he had, first I said [if] this boy if he sets his mind to it, it can become very big, he can become history in the role he has, he can be the best striker, good that he’s living a great moment, that he’s doing well, that he’s shining in a super spectacular league,” Diaz told ESPN Sportscenter (via Sportwitness).

Luis Diaz has also been a consistent presence for Liverpool this year, scoring 11 goals and providing two assists in just 23 appearances. The Reds currently sit at the top of the table, while Duran’s Aston Villa are in sixth place, 11 points behind the leaders.

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Liverpool captain Virgil Van Dijk lauds Luis Diaz’s performance against Tottenham Hotspur

After a strong start to the season, Diaz had recently struggled in front of goal. However, he returned to his best with a brace during Liverpool’s 6-3 victory over Tottenham Hotspur.

Arne Slot deployed Diaz as a number nine, but also utilized his versatility by allowing him to play across the frontline. The 27-year-old had a free role and drifted into both channels, which gave the Reds an advantage against Spurs’ high press.

Virgil van Dijk was full of praise for the Colombian, noting that the tactical adjustment, combined with Diaz’s understanding of the role, proved to be highly effective.

"If you watch the game he wasn’t really a No. 9,. He played through the middle but he obviously played in midfield as well. It is very difficult for defenders when you don’t play against a direct opponent because there is so much movement. Lucho did it outstanding today again and that is what we need,” he told Liverpool Echo (via This is Anfield)

Liverpool are now four points ahead of second-placed Chelsea, with a game in hand. They will kick off their festive fixtures by hosting Leicester City on Boxing Day, followed by a clash against West Ham United on Sunday, December 29.