Luis Suarez has backed Darwin Nunez to bounce back from his international ban and demonstrate his ability for Uruguay.

After Marcelo Bielsa's side were knocked out of this summer's Copa America by Colombia Nunez was one of several players to race into the stands after trouble broke out between supporters.

He could be seen throwing punches towards supporters as the unsavory scenes unfolded close the players' families after the full-time whistle.

The Liverpool forward was seen consoling his baby son on the pitch after the fight.

Nunez was subsequently handed a five-match ban from international football by CONMEBOL for his involvement in the incident, the lengthiest of any handed out to those involved.

The suspension meant Nunez was not part of the squad as Suarez called time on his international career in a 0-0 draw with Paraguay on Friday.

Speaking following the game Suarez insisted his compatriot has what it takes to bounce back.

'I already spoke with Darwin when he was sanctioned in England. Sometimes people enjoy it more when you are on the ground and fall, but people feel more pain when you get back up.

'And that is what he has to do: get up and continue to show the kind of player that he is. 

'That is where you see the great players and the mental strength he has to have to show those people that they like to see him on the ground.'

With the country's two most prolific goalscorers, Suarez and Edinson Cavani, calling time on their international careers in the time since the last World Cup, Nunez will be expected to take the mantle heading into the 2026 tournament.

Since making his debut for La Celeste in 2019, Nunez has netted 13 times in his 29 caps.

However, following Arne Slot's arrival as new Liverpool boss the forward has seen his opportunities limited so far this season.

After remaining on the bench for the entirety of the Reds' opening weekend victory over Ipswich, Nunez has been restricted to cameo appearances in their wins against Brentford and Manchester United.