Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp was actually very impressed by attacker Roberto Firmino against Chelsea last night, despite his side’s disappointing display.
Speaking during his post-match interview with Sky Sports after the Reds’s 0-0 draw, the German pointed out three players for praise – having been particularly impressed by a Kop legend.
“Joe Gomez was there, Darwin was there – Bobby showed how good he is tonight,” said Klopp.
Despite Klopp’s liking for him, the Brazilian is set to leave the club at the end of the season upon the expiry of his contract.
Klopp raves about Firmino
Having arrived at Anfield in 2015 in a deal worth £29m, Firmino has gone on to become a legend of the club.
In his eight years on Merseyside, he has incredibly amassed 358 appearances for the Reds – during which he has bagged 108 goals and 79 assists.
He has been a huge part of Klopp’s success, and he will go down as a key component of one of the best front-lines to ever grace the Premier League.
However, the 31-year-old has definitely shown signs of slowing down over the past year or so.
He is no longer as crisp and fluid as he once was, so he’s subsequently been demoted to a regular place on Liverpool’s bench.
Against Chelsea, we actually thought he was one of the brighter sparks in the starting XI, especially considering his surprise inclusion.
Therefore, it begs the question why Klopp chose to persist with Diogo Jota – who was having a poor game – and sub Firmino off after just an hour of play.