Neuville backs De Jong to match Lewandowski and Gomez

Jan 18, 2013 2:25:00 AM

The former Germany international believes the Netherlands international can rival the goalscoring exploits of Bayern Munich's Mario Gomez and Borussia Dortmund's Robert Lewandowski

EXCLUSIVE

By Kornel Pracki

Oliver Neuville has backed Luuk de Jong to be as deadly as Robert Lewandowski and Mario Gomez - if he can remain free of injury.

The Borussia Monchengladbach striker boasted an impressive goal ratio for previous club FC Twente, but has only managed two goals in seven appearances so far this season.

“It's difficult for him, after his goals he got injured, but I'm sure he will return and score more goals than in the first half of the season,” he told Goal.com.

“If they set him up and he is able to be a threat, then he can be as successful as Lewandowski or Gomez, who scored frequently last season.”

The 39-year-old is also confident Monchengladbach are over their early season troubles and backed his former club to enjoy a strong second half of the campaign.

“At the moment things are going well. After the difficulties early in the season, they could win almost every game. The season runs well so far,” he added.