Liverpool: Klopp makes huge hint whether Diogo Jota will start on Sunday

(Photo by Clive Brunskill/Getty Images)
(Photo by Clive Brunskill/Getty Images)

The Liverpool boss had this to say.

The hat-trick hero was imperious midweek. Diogo Jota slalomed around Atalanta, running through their thicket of defenders like a knife through butter. He couldn’t be stopped. His three deft finishes past the flailing goalkeeper has already made him a Liverpool hero.

The partnership and link-up between, Jota, Salah and Mane was fluid and effortless. The Reds played the free-flowing football which Jurgen Klopp has become renowned for during his time at Anfield.

It was easy on the eye and pleasing for the observer.

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Amidst all the joy and the abundance of praise, there was one name neglected by the Reds’ supporters in the following days.

Roberto Firmino.

The Brazilian has been somewhat out of form in recent weeks. His contributions to the Reds’ dynamic pressing game however is invaluable. Firmino’s press is integral to the way the club functions and something which is extremely crucial in games of huge magnitude.

Games like the one which awaits the Reds this Sunday.

Jurgen Klopp is facing a huge conundrum in preparation for the Reds’  fierce clash. It’s a game which has already been dubbed a title decider for the Premier League.

Such conviction is premature.

However it could ultimately determine the season ahead for both side’s. A victory for the Reds could provide a huge psychological advantage over Pep Guardiola’s side and vice versa.

Klopp will be determined to get the better of his adversary and he will do his best to cause City problems.

The choice between whether to start Diogo Jota or Roberto Firmino will be a tough one.

And it seems like Klopp has given a major hint about his decision.

When asked about Roberto Firmino, Jurgen Klopp was quick to fire-back at those who criticise the Brazilian in his press-conference ahead of the Reds’ clash with City.

Speaking via TeamTalk, Klopp said the following:

"“If they don’t see [his quality], I cannot help these people. That is it.”"

His defence of Roberto Firmino, could suggest Diogo Jota is unlikely to start against Pep Guardiola on Sunday afternoon.

However, the Reds will be hoping the Brazilian will be back to his best in order to ensure they get a well needed victory.

Diogo Jota coming off the bench could still provide Klopp with the necessary ammunition to pull off a victory.

Who should start against Man City on Sunday, Firmino or Jota?