Luis Suarez describes Darwin Nunez as ‘one of the best number nines’

Uruguay forward Luis Suarez has praised teammate Darwin Nunez, describing him as “one of the best number nines in the world” after the latter added to his tally for the national team.

Nunez scored twice for Uruguay in a 3-0 World Cup qualifying win over Bolivia on Tuesday.

Uruguay lead South American qualifying, with the former Benfica star topping the continent’s qualifiers top scorer chart with five goals in six appearances.

The 24-year-old’s recent brace came after he was given the start in Montevideo ahead of veteran Suarez. Suarez, 36, came on in the final minutes of the game and praised his younger colleague.

“I have one of the best number nines in the world ahead of me, we have to support him and enjoy him,” Suarez said after the win.

“Today I am in another role [than before] and I am happy to be here helping the group.”

Nunez had already scored against Argentina during the international break in November, following scoring against Colombia and Brazil in October.

His two goals against Bolivia came either side of an own goal by Gabriel Villamil as Marcelo Bielsa’s side strolled to victory.

He will look to replicate a similar form when he returns to action for Liverpool in the Premier League over the weekend.