Liverpool FC rounded off their very successful pre-season with a 3-1 win against Athletic Bilbao in Dublin this evening.
The game got underway with an opening goal from Roberto Firmino in the form of a penalty. Despite the keeper going the right way, Firmino’s confidence managed to slice the ball straight past him giving the Reds the lead.
The new Number 9 is making a name for himself as Liverpool’s potential new penalty taker.
The Brazilian is slotting nicely into his new forward role. In the past Firmino has gone silent on the pitch during spells where buddy Philippe Coutinho isn’t present. Today wasn’t the case. Firmino stepped up with Coutinho missing the game with an injury and had an excellent game.
I can definitely see those bright white teeth behind the ball at the 12 yard spot this coming season. Fans are still stewing over Jordan Henderson’s poor shot during the Audi Cup final penalty shootout. Maybe now is the perfect time to promote Bobby to first choice penalty taker. Especially with Henderson being prone to injury and James Milner spending more time on the sidelines.
Ignoring injuries
With Coutinho and Henderson not travelling today, and Adam Lallana set for 3-4 months out of play, tensions were high. But Liverpool showed their true ability and powered through the unnerving absences. The impressive 3-1 winning performance was the perfect way to round of a very promising pre-season.
Despite three strong midfielders out of action, I’m still not wishing we had clinched the Naby Keita deal. Mohamed Salah is proving himself more and more as the games go on. His pace on the ball is something we’re all already aware of but seeing it amongst the rest of our players is magical. His eye for picking out goals and opening up the defense is something special.
Salah is joining Sadio Mané as one of our only consistent and reliable players. Klopp’s complete change of squad at half time allowed Mané to make an immediate impact on the game. Narrowly missing a goal by a spectacular save from the opposition’s keeper.
The two African wingers are definitely on their way to creating some beautiful memories together and Salah could well be the Premier League player with the highest assist tally this coming campaign.