Miguel Almiron's revival at Newcastle United should provide a template for Darwin Nunez to follow amid criticism of the summer signing's mixed start to life at Liverpool. That is the view of John Barnes, who believes the backing of fans and team-mates has led to the Paraguay international's emergence as the Magpies' top scorer this term.
Almiron netted his ninth Premier League goal of the season in the Boxing Day victory at Leicester City, having previously taken 110 appearances to register his last nine goals. The former MLS star was among Eddie Howe's squad options tipped with a potential summer exit, but the 28-year-old has since established himself as a key player.
Nunez has already scored nine times for Liverpool since his blockbuster summer arrival from Benfica. However, the Uruguay international has regularly faced criticism for his profligate finishing as Jurgen Klopp's side have so far struggled by their own lofty standards in the Premier League.
READ MORE: 'Massive': Rodri's telling response to Newcastle question after Man City's victory at Leeds
Barnes believes the 'composure' and 'confidence' which Nunez requires can now be seen in Almiron this term. The former club-record signing has not become a top player 'all of a sudden', but Newcastle are now reaping the rewards of sticking by the previously inconsistent attacker.
Barnes told BonusCodeBets: “Well once again, similar to Darwin Nunez, when Miguel Almiron was missing chances and not playing well, the fans stuck with him, the players stuck with him. The team started to play well and now you can see, the goal he scored against Leicester, he had the composure. Before, he was missing those chances.
“I think Nunez can look at that situation and say that he’s been through something similar and with the right support, because Almiron is a good player, as is Darwin Nunez, you can gain more confidence. When you’re giving a hundred percent, the players, the manager and the fans keep supporting you, that’s what’s happened to Almiron.
“He (Almiron) hasn’t become a better player all of a sudden. That talent has always been there but it’s that confidence he’s gained from the support of the fans, the players and the manager.”
READ NEXT
- Alan Shearer swerves 'stupid' Gary Lineker error when asked Newcastle Premier League title question
- Eddie Howe to offer support to Jonjo Shelvey after Newcastle United injury blow
- Mikel Arteta's message to Arsenal players as Newcastle United enter Premier League title race
- Newcastle's scary transfer track record as five stars struggle after failed Magpies move
- Newcastle United loanee Matty Longstaff 'in tears' after suffering serious knee injury
