Firmino on Klopp and the fellow Brazilian who influenced him the most

Roberto Firmino has cited the influence of Jurgen Klopp and a fellow Brazilian maestro in his development as an attacking player.

The Reds’ No.9 started off life at Anfield under Brendan Rodgers playing out wide, and often finds himself in deep positions during matches even now.

However, Klopp’s management has seen him progress into a fully-fledged centre-forward at Liverpool, and his return of 61 goals in 181 games has been evidence enough that the switch was worth it.

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WATFORD, ENGLAND – NOVEMBER 24: Roberto Firmino of Liverpool is challenged by Abdoulaye Doucoure of Watford during the Premier League match between Watford FC and Liverpool FC at Vicarage Road on November 24, 2018 in Watford, United Kingdom. (Photo by Richard Heathcote/Getty Images)

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Describing his development, Firmino explained: “I was a midfielder, though for a while I even played as a central defender.”

“But whenever I got the ball, I would start to dribble and to nutmeg people and join the attack. So every year I evolved a little bit further forward up the pitch.

“Once I got to the U17s, I became a No.10, which was the position I held up until recently – when I established myself as a centre-forward.

“It was Klopp’s idea to fix me as a No.9. But I accepted this role and adapted to it. Now I want to continue in this position until the end of my career.”

Firmino added: “We get along so well. He’s an excellent coach, an amazing person, so passionate on the pitch.

“When he says that, to me, it’s a sign that I’m giving back what he wants. It motivates me to keep going, to do the things he asks.”

Klopp hasn’t been Firmino’s only major influence, however – legendary Brazilian Ronaldinho played a key role in the 27-year-old’s development, too.

“I was wowed by his way of playing football,” said Firmino.

“But that was not enough. I needed to improve my own game, to try to be the best footballer in the world.”

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Source: anfieldhq.com