Dutch journalistJermain Leitbig has praised the performances of NEC Nijmegen's Liverpool loanee Taiwo Awoniyi, despite the fact he is yet to score for the club.
Awoniyi, 19, joined Liverpool in 2015 for a fee of £400k but was immediately sent out on loan to German side Frankfurt, where he scored one goal in 13 league appearances.
The forwardjoined Nijmegen during the summer, and although he is yet to score a Eredivisie goal in eight appearances, Leitbig has likened him to former Manchester United, Real Madrid and Netherlands striker Ruud van Nistelrooy.
Dutch Journalist Wax Lyrical Over Liverpool Loanee Awoniyi- He Is Like A Young Van Nistelrooy https://t.co/98Nx3jaJxT via @owngoalnigeria
"He has a high sense of positional awareness, very adept in getting into goal scoring positions. He reminds me of a young Van Nistelrooy, always lurking. He is yet to score but that is only a matter of time�, Leitbig toldowngoalnigeria.com.
Nijmegen's manager is Peter Hyballa, who reportedly specialises in the development of young players. Hyballa was previously coached the U19s at Borussia Dortmund during Jurgen Klopp's reign at the club, notably helping in the development of current Bayern Munich midfielder Mario Gotze.
Awoniyi was named in Nigeria's initial 35-man squad for the Olympic Games in Rio earlier this year, but was omitted from the final selection.
The 19-year-old is regarded as a bright prospect, having represented his country at the U20 World Cup in New Zealand last year. Awoniyi is hopeful over the prospects ofhis Anfield future, with Reds manager Klopp having previously brought through young talent during his career.
Awoniyi's Nijmegen are currently in 13th position in the Eredivisie table.