Roberto Firmino needs to “step up” his performance levels, according to former Liverpool striker Peter Crouch.
The Brazilian was hugely disappointing in the Reds’ 1-0 defeat at home to Brighton on Wednesday, failing to have any impact on proceedings.
There have been signs of good form returning for Firmino in recent weeks, but overall, this season has been a poor one for him.
Speaking on BT Sport [via Football365] after the Brighton game, Crouch criticised Liverpool’s No.9 for his lack of influence:
There’s an over-reliance on Salah, Firmino’s got to step up. It felt like he’s coming back into it. But Salah is the one scoring the goals, he’s still got 20-goals and we’re talking about him not being on top form.
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Firmino has been such a vital player for Liverpool for a number of years now, with the Reds clicking whenever he does, such is his ability to link with others and lead the line in his own unique way.
When he is off his game, however, the Reds invariably struggle, with their attacking cohesion falling apart around him.
This has happened far too often this season, while six goals and four assists in 22 Premier League appearances is a fairly underwhelming return, too.
With Diogo Jota excelling before injury, netting nine times in 17 matches, Firmino’s place in the side will be really under threat when the Portuguese returns.
