Jurgen Klopp ‘embarrassed’ to explain Roberto Firmino’s value to Liverpool amid Diogo Jota’s scintillating form

New signing Jota has already scored more goals for the Reds this year than his Brazilian team-mate

(Liverpool FC via Getty Images)

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has brushed off scrutiny of Roberto Firmino and insists he would be embarrassed to have to explain the forward's value to the team.

The Brazil international's place in the side has been brought into focus because of the form of summer signing Diogo Jota, who has scored seven goals in 10 matches, including a Champions League hat-trick in midweek.

However, Firmino is likely to be in consideration to start against Manchester City on Sunday as Klopp knows he is a big-game player.

"[To] who is with us: I don't have to say one word about Bobby Firmino and how important he was for us, I don't waste time with that," said the Reds boss, who confirmed midfielder Thiago Alcantara will not be ready for Sunday's match.

"[To] who is not with us: I don't care if they know about it to be honest. He was in so many games the difference-maker without scoring maybe, I'm not sure, but with scoring as well in other games, so I would feel really embarrassed if I had to mention now the qualities of Bobby Firmino.

"I can't help these people, sorry. If they don't see it I cannot help them. That's how it is."

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PA