Tim Vickery has compared Liverpool transfer target Enzo Fernandez to boxing heavyweight legend Joe Frazier after his stunning introduction from the bench at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.
Argentina, who lost their opening game against Saudi Arabia, were desperate for that win against Mexico, with Fernandez coming off the bench, being involved in the first goal and then curing a brilliant effort for his side’s second.
That was a much-needed three points for the pre-tournament favourites and a reason why Fernandez, who only joined Benfica in the summer, is a much-sought-after figure.
South American football expert Tim Vickery highlighted how Benfica’s business model is to buy these players from South America and then sell them on for a ‘huge fee’, as he told BBC Radio 5 Live Sport.
“He’s not coming out of the team anytime soon now,” said Vickery. “They bring on Enzo Fernandez, and within five minutes, they get a goal and look at that goal.
“The key thing, it’s easy to ignore this, the fine intelligent pass from Di Maria and then a lovely touch and finish from Messi (for Argentina’s first goal). But who gives Di Maria the ball? Enzo Fernandez. Higher up the field and, all of sudden, you have a circuit of play.
“Enzo Fernandez has only been at Benfica for a few months. It’s their business model, isn’t it? Buy from South America. Fatten the calf, then sell on for a huge sum.
“The one thing that you really see in him, apart from the technical ability, is big match temperament. He loves it. He is a bit like Joe Frazier. The harder it is, the more he likes it. He was perfect for this situation.”
LIVERPOOL TO KNOCK ON BENFICA’S DOOR AGAIN
Liverpool will have Benfica’s number on speed dial after their transfer business involving Uruguay striker Darwin Nunez in the summer.
The all-action forward is looking rough around the edges since his move to Merseyside, but the signs he is showcasing are very promising.
With Jurgen Klopp looking to freshen up his midfield, add bite, freshness and some stronger legs, then someone like Fernandez would be a top purchase given their interest in the player.
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