Former Premier League striker Noel Whelan has taken time to praise Liverpool star Roberto Firmino.
The 30-year-old is once again seemingly going under the radar this season as Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mane take the plaudits.
But, following a hat-trick against Watford last weekend and a brace in Portugal prior to the international break, Firmino is enjoying a stellar start to 2021/22.
Speaking to Football Insider, Whelan hailed the number nine’s impact on Jurgen Klopp’s side.
Firmino 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.
Described as the ‘connector of pieces’ by Klopp, the Brazilian ace has long since been the orchestrator in the middle of a deadly front three.
Following a remarkable perfect Sofascore 10 rated outing at Vicarage Road, Firmino now boasts a 7.32 average rating in the Premier League this term.
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The unsung hero is spot on – but that should be no slight given the exploits of Salah and Mane.
As a trio with Diogo Jota waiting in the wings, Liverpool possesses a fearsome attacking lineup that can carry the Reds deep into any competition.
Klopp’s men face Manchester United at Old Trafford on Sunday, a game whereby form often goes out the window. Firmino’s work rate, endeavour and intelligence could have a huge role to play.
