Impressive Liverpool sub puts Firmino’s future at risk

Liverpool star Roberto Firmino’s future is at risk.

The forward hasn’t been his usual self this season. Is it burnout, a regression or perhaps a combination of the three?

Either way, his future has never been under so much pressure.

Roberto Firmino used to be one of the untouchables. We all know how important he is to Liverpool and how much Jurgen Klopp appreciates the Brazilian, but the side can’t continue to carry Bobby when he’s not performing.

Step forward Diogo Jota or Takumi Minamino.

Both of those players were sent on during the second half of the 1-0 win over Ajax in the Champions League, while Jota impressing more than Minamino.

The Portuguese forward presses hard and presents a goal threat thanks to his right foot. Klopp signed Jota from Wolves to provide a back-up to Sadio Mane but the youngster can provide an option across the front three.

With Firmino struggling for form and some fans calling for him to spend some time on the bench, the sparkling performance of the Liverpool substitute has put pressure on the Brazilian.

James Pearce, a journalist for the Athletic, praised Jota for the quality he brings off the bench – while he was praised by many following the final whistle on Wednesday night.

A front three of Mane, Jota and Mohamed Salah would provide an increased goal threat while not significantly reducing the front-foot approach of the Reds game.

The injury to Virgil van Dijk may force Jurgen Klopp to change his methods in order to leave the back five less exposed. Without the Dutchman a super high line may not be possible, and that negates the need for an underperforming Firmino.

Incidentally, Fabinho was excellent as a central defender and that might also affect the gaffer’s thoughts on the subject.

If this squad is going to be a meritocracy, than poor performances need to be punished. Firmino could be the first to fall under that axe.