10 Things Liverpool Fans Need To Know About Roberto Firmino
10. He's Not The Same As Raheem Sterling
He could very well be replacing Raheem Sterling but the player isn't a like-for-like swap. Firmino is more direct with a great eye for a through ball and isn't as nimble as Sterling. The Brazilian's work ethic is a huge strength to his game and it has been likened to Alexis Sanchez and Sergio Aguero's tireless workmanship. Bundesliga football journalist, Jonathan Harding, said of Firmino:
"He's not as wiry as Sterling. There's a bit more bustle to him. It would be a waste to ship him wide, and he should only really play in attack if it's in a supporting role or part of a fluid front set. "He worked really well with Kevin Volland at Hoffenheim - the Germany Under-21 captain is another player catching Premier League eyes - and the chances of him forming something similar with friend (but different player) Coutinho are high."
NCTJ-accredited football writer with an MA in Sports Journalism. What Culture football editor. Write for the official Newcastle United programme. Former video reporter at North News. Featured and published in the Sunderland Echo, Shields Gazette, Mail Online, The Mirror, The Sun and others.