Noel Whelan hails ‘unsung hero’ Roberto Firmino, who has been on a song lately after impressive displays against Watford and Atletico Madrid.
Roberto Firmino was never thought of as a prolific striker. He was liked by Jurgen Klopp during his Hoffenheim days for his overall contributions in attack, specifically for stitching up play in front and the Brazilian has not disappointed under the German tactician at Anfield.
Last season he was somewhat out of touch, but that was the case with the entire team. Liverpool failed in their title retention due to many key injuries to defenders and midfielders. However, the manager now has a fully fit squad at his disposal and is already reaping the rewards.
It could be said that when the entire team plays well, Firmino emerges as one of the best stars on the pitch. The past week, such was the case after the Brazilian’s starring performances against Watford in the Premier League and Atletico in the Champions League.
His hat-trick against Watford was overshadowed by Mohamed Salah’s man of the match display. Then against Atletico, he was one of the best performers on the pitch, and his contributions may have again failed to come into the spotlight due to the Egyptian’s performance.
Former Leeds striker Noel Whelan was on hand to praise Liverpool’s ‘unsung hero’ after his performances. The former striker also pointed out that Klopp may be right not to spend excessively in the transfer market, stating a fully fit squad is doing wonders.
Whelan told Football Insider, “If you keep a front three like that together, you’re going to be up there all day long. Firmino, he is the unsung hero. He’s the one who has the intelligence, creates the space. He’s not spoken about in the same breath as Mane and Salah because of their goal record.
“But if you get him on his day, he is just as potent as anyone. The reason Klopp didn’t buy too many players is that he knows what he’s got when everyone’s fully fit. That is what you’re seeing now. They will be up there at the end of the season, no doubt.”
