Liverpool legend now convinced by in-form Firminho

Former Liverpool favourite Danny Murphy believes Brazilian star Roberto Firmino is going from strength to strength for the Reds this term.

The 25-year-old has been moulded into one of the most influential figures in Jurgen Klopp’s side, scoring 11 Premier League goals so far this season including two winners in Liverpool’s last two games against Stoke and West Brom.

A few eyebrows were raised at Firmino’s £30million price tag last term, but Murphy – who made 170 appearances for the Anfield side – is adamant that the dangerman’s incisive movement and goalscoring abilities have justified the hefty fee.

“For me, in the last couple of weeks when [Sadio] Mane has been missing, he [Firmino] has stepped up to the plate,” he said.

“What I like about him is he’s got a fantastic work ethic first and foremost but he loves running in behind.

“You don’t have to be the quickest player if you know where the space is. He’s very calm in the final third.

“A lot of people would expect that of a forward player playing for Liverpool but it’s easier said than done.

“When he first came, I wasn’t convinced. It was a really, really good performance and he’s impressed me greatly.

“Against West Brom he was playing in off the right but he wanders about all over the place. He’s hard to pick up. He’s got that awareness and ability with other players to rotate that position.”