Peter Crouch admits it may be time for Liverpool to play Diogo Jota over Roberto Firmino.
Jota has enjoyed a superb start to life at Anfield, scoring four goals in his first nine appearances, including decisive strikes against Sheffield United and West Ham in the Premier League.
The Portuguese’s late finish at home to the latter on Saturday sent Liverpool top of the table, but on the flip side, Firmino had another poor night at the office.
The 29-year-old has scored just once this season and his form has been patchy throughout 2020, with only five goals in total in the calendar year.
Taking part in a Q&A session for the Daily Mail, former Reds striker Crouch said Jota is pushing hard for regular starts, but stressed the lingering importance of Firmino, too.
I was of the opinion Firmino was one player who would never be dropped by Jurgen Klopp but, given their respective form, there is now a big decision for Liverpool’s manager.
I have been so impressed by Jota. He took his goal brilliantly against West Ham and looks like he will make a difference every time he is on the pitch.
He has given them an element of unpredictability and has made his transfer fee look very shrewd business.
He warrants a start in a game of that magnitude against City but I wouldn’t forget about all Firmino has done. It would be a big, big shout if he didn’t start next Sunday.
Read Liverpool Verdict
Firmino has been a wonderful player for Liverpool, and could continue to be, but the time has come for him to lose his place.
The Brazilian is not only shy in front of goal at the moment, but he is also poor in the much-lauded aspects of his play, such as his touch and off-the-ball work.
Jota, in comparison, looks full of life and is having a huge impact on games, so starting him makes total sense.
There is the option of Jurgen Klopp playing both in a 4-2-3-1 formation, too, which could alleviate the issue of leaving one out.
Liverpool look more balanced in a 4-3-3, however, and the midfield will need to be stocked for tough upcoming games against Atalanta and Manchester City.
