Marco Silva: 'Oumar Niasse very much in our plans'

The Senegalese international joined the club for a £13.5 million fee in 2015, but disappointed hugely in his first season and played only 5 times in the Premier League. 

It took a loan spell to Hull City in his second season in England to spark some form, with Silva managing the player during his time at the KCOM Stadium as he scored 4 goals in 17 games.

Under Sam Allardyce last season he managed to make 22 appearances in the league and scored 8 goals, and although 'Big Sam' has left, his former manager is retaining faith in the player.

"Of course, Oumar Niasse is in our plans," the Portuguese told the 'Liverpool Echo'.

"He is different than all the others when you look at Cenk (Tosun) and at Dominic Calvert-Lewin - Niasse is completely different and in some moments... he will give different things to the others."

Cenk Tosun cost in the region of £30 million and is more of a goalscoring finisher, while youngster Calvert-Lewin likes to use his pace to trouble defenders.

By these comments, the former Watford boss is hinting at the physicality and ability to hold up the ball that Niasse possess that the other two forwards at the club do not. This could be a vital tool in the manager's tactical arsenal in games where long-balls may be favoured or an impact off the bench is needed.

"It is a matter of my decision, in the right moments of the game" Silva added.