Colombia manager Nestor Lorenzo has defended one of his prized attacking talents.

The South American head coach has come to the defense of Liverpool forward Luis Diaz.

The winger will be hoping to make an impact when Colombia take on Uruguay in a World Cup qualifier.

"We don't have the formula, let's say, the first thing we did was tell him that I don't want the responsibility of the team to weigh on Luis. I think he has played very good games in the national team," Lorenzo told reporters.

"What happens is that people expect there to be four goals per game and that is not normal.

"I think his performance has been good and I hope he improves with training and getting to know his team-mates. In football, partnerships are needed in some sectors of the field, where it is playing and playing and training."