Brazilian great Rivaldo says Everton winger Richarlison is a player with “great potential” who could “be really important for Brazil”.

The former Barcelona and AC Milan icon has been impressed with the 21-year-old’s form since arriving from Watford in the summer, with Richarlison netting three goals in three games for the Toffees so far.

That has earned him a maiden call-up to the Brazil squad as one of seven uncapped players named by boss Tite for their friendlies with USA and El Salvador.

And Rivaldo has backed Richarlison to seize his chance and says he can be a key component in the Brazil side for years to come. 

“Richarlison is producing solid performances in the Premier League,” he said. “He is clearly a good player, with great potential that could be really important for Brazil soon.

“Everton spent a good amount of money on his signing. Nowadays is hard to know if a player really deserves the money spent on him because the transfer values are really high.

“But I believe he will justify the investment at Everton. He is making things happen.”