Jurgen Klopp "embarrassed" by Firmino critics
Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has snapped back at criticism of midfielder Roberto Firmino, stating that he would feel “embarrassed” if he felt the need to point out the Brazilian’s qualities.
The Anfield boss dropped Firmino for new signing Diogo Jota in the club’s midweek Champions League clash against Atalanta, which in turn saw the Portuguese player net a hat-trick over the course of a 5-0 win.
Contrastingly, Firmino has only scored one goal in 11 appearances for Liverpool this season, leading some fans to question the attacking midfielder’s contribution to the team.
Yet, Klopp was far from sympathetic with that point of view. “In so many games he was the difference maker without scoring and then with scoring in other games,” said the Liverpool manager.
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“I would feel embarrassed if I have to mention the qualities of Firmino. I can’t help these people, sorry. If they don’t see it, I can’t help them. That is how it is”
“People who are with us, I don’t have to say one word on how important he is. People who are not with us, I don’t care what they say about him.”
The Liverpool manager will now have a tough decision to make in the coming days, when the reigning champions face Manchester City on Sunday at the Etihad Stadium.