Hamann: Firmino can be a “great asset” for Liverpool

Former Liverpool midfielder Dietmar Hamann thinks that Roberto Firmino has the ability and potential to become a “great asset” for the Reds.

Speaking to the official LFC website, Hamann said that the 24-year-old’s unique skillset offers something different to Jurgen Klopp, and said the Brazilian’s style of play is what makes him so versatile.

He said:

He’s a very talented player.

He’s very direct, he’s a little bit different to [Philippe] Coutinho, that’s why he can also play that role as a false nine or a centre-forward.

When a player comes into the Premier League, especially a South American player, they can often struggle to cope with the more physical nature of football in England.

However, Hamann feels that Firmino’s time playing in Germany’s Bundesliga with Hoffenheim will help make that transition a lot easier.

Sometimes when Brazilians or South Americans come to the Premier League [people] ask if they can cope with the physical demands but I think he’s more German or European than South American, mentally.

He never shirked a challenge in Germany, he was always one of the first ones to go where it hurts, and I think he’s shown that in his few games for the club.

He’s got tremendous ability and, coupled with the mental strength he’s got, I think he could be a great asset for the club for a long time to come.

Firmino scored his first Liverpool goal in the 4-1 hammering of title-favourites Manchester City, and the former German international believes that the performance the Reds put on at the Etihad Stadium will have made other clubs in the Premier League sit up and take notice of Klopp’s side.

To go [to City] and to win the game, and also the way they did win, more or less put the game to bed in the first half, was majorly impressive.

It’ll also send shockwaves around the Premier League because I think since the new manager has come in gradually performances have improved and results have improved.

That fear factor has always been a big part in Liverpool’s history, not only away from home but especially at home.

I think a lot of teams will be wary in the next few weeks when they do play Liverpool, whereas maybe a year ago people didn’t mind playing Liverpool.