Sports

Jurgen Klopp launches impassioned Roberto Firmino defence amid star's poor form


His record of just six goals in 43 appearances this season may seem alarming for a leading Premier League striker but Jurgen Klopp has no doubt that Roberto Firmino will be back to his best in the near future.

Firmino’s value to the Reds has never really been measured in goals to be fair to the Brazilian – even when he excelled as the club lifted their first Premier League title he only scored nine goals and created eight assists.

But like fellow frontman Sadio Mane, Firmino’s form has declined this season and he has only scored six goals and created five assists all season in all competitions.

However, his manager is not concerned.



Jurgen Klopp has defended Roberto Firmino and expects him to be back to his best soon
Jurgen Klopp has defended Roberto Firmino and expects him to be back to his best soon

“It is a mixture of the season, 100 per cent, but as well, when the boys up front don’t score as often as we’re used to then that doesn’t help,” Klopp said.

“But anyway, we are not in dreamland, so you can go through these periods. But, of course, it is temporary and not forever. There is no doubt about that.

“Bobby is not old or tired or lost everything, not at all. We see everything in training, but we need to make sure we bring that more often on the pitch.

“That is not only for Bobby either, but you asked about him. That is a general thing for us.”

Firmino has been integral to Liverpool ’s success in recent years, following his £29 million move from Hoffenheim in the summer of 2015.

Champions League, World Club Cup, Premier League, Copa America: Firmino has enjoyed huge success since arriving on Merseyside.



Firmino has endured a difficult season
Firmino has endured a difficult season

Firmino’s link-up play and the way he selflessly provides for Mane and Mo Salah has been pivotal to the success Liverpool have enjoyed under Klopp.

And in February Mane spoke of why Firmino is his ‘favourite team-mate’.

Mane told ESPN Brasil : “He deserves more credit than me and Mo for sure.

“He’s always seeing [opportunities for] goals, but I think without Bobby I don’t see myself or Mo scoring as many goals as we do, to be honest. Because he makes everything easier for us.

“I think Brazil are just lucky to have Firmino. I’d love to… I always say ‘Bobby, you have to change your nationality and come to Senegal’, which for me would be a dream.

“I just love him. And as a team-mate I think he’s my favourite team-mate. I love him.”





READ SOURCE

Leave a Reply

This website uses cookies. By continuing to use this site, you accept our use of cookies.