Former Australian NFL player Colin Scotts believes Jarryd Hayne has what it takes to become a superstar following his regular season debut for the San Francisco 49ers.
After fumbling his first punt return in the NFL, Hayne rebounded to play solidly as a running back after Reggie Bush went off with a calf injury in the 49ers' 20-3 win over Minnesota.
Hayne completed four rushes for 19 yards including a nine-yard gain in the third quarter.
Scotts, who debuted with Arizona in 1987, said Hayne's reaction to his inauspicious start was what impressed him the most about the performance.
"We're looking at something really, really special," Scotts told Fox Sports News.
"That right there (his nine-yard rush) you are looking at the beginning of a bona fide superstar because of that beautiful zig-zag, and his point of contact is great now, he's lower at all contact.
"That is a guy that looks like he's been doing it since he was five years old.
"That was a true running back that you would have thought had been running with the ball for 20 years to be honest."
Meanwhile, Australian sporting stars took to social media to post messages of support for Hayne during the match.
Socceroos captain Tim Cahill backed Hayne to bounce back from his shaky start.
"He will always shine @jarrydhayne_1 because that's what we do. Whatever the outcome this is priceless experience," Cahill tweeted.
NBA championship finalist Matthew Dellavedova tweeted: "Bugger.. Tough first play for Hayne. Hope he gets another chance to return soon!"
Boomers and Utah Jazz basketballer Joe Ingles tweeted he was pumped to watch Hayne and the 49ers in action.
"Rough first play for Hayne!" tweeted Ingles after Hayne's fumble.
Scotts said Hayne had felt the pressure, but would not make the same mistake twice.
"I'm glad he didn't rock the world, I'm glad he made a mistake because he's only going to get better," Scotts said.
"It's the best thing that could have happened - get that out of the way now.
"I think it's going to be a real blessing in disguise."
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