EPL
Watford vs Liverpool: Is Solanke ready to take Roberto Firmino place in Klopp’s starting XI
Brazilian forward Roberto Firmino continues his uninspiring form while he was with the Brazilian side during the just concluded international break.
The 27-year-old striker is definitely one of Klopp’s most trusted attackers but his recent form display with the Sambar Boys could be passing a negative information through to the German tactician.
Since the start of this season, the player has failed to return to the blistering form he was during the previous season and that must be a major concern for Klopp.
His link-up play with his fellow strikers hasn’t been impressive, while his usual dashing runs –which made him one of the deadliest strikers in the League last season — has never been seen in all matches he’s played so far.
Against Cameroon in Brazil’s last match of the year, the striker started the encounter but his presence counted for nothing as he was too wasteful in front of goal. He shots lacked cutting-edge and his passes were easily read by the African defenders.
After many unexpected and shambolic display for the Selecta forward, Firmino was replaced by coach Tite who was largely disappointed with the player’s attitude on the pitch.
Contrary to his Liverpool teammate, England international Dominic Solanke continue to ignore his club’s mysteries as he put up another match-winning display for England’s U-21 team.
The youngster, who joined Liverpool from their arch-rivals Chelsea last season, has been a back-up to the Brazilian star since his move to Stamford Bridge.
Despite his lack of game-time at Anfield, the youngster looked sharp, lively and deadly in front of goal.
In the Young Lion’s last match of the year, Solanke scored a brace to take his tally to four goals in two matches.
Apart from his well-taken goals, his timely runs into the opponent box, his passes and his constant attempts on goal showed that the player is on a mission to overtake Firmino in the pecking order.
Irrespective of his showings with the England’s youth team, silk might have to wait the more before he gets his chance under Klopp.
This is because the German tactician is a die-hard fan of the Brazilian star and he could do everything to ensure Firmino return to shape and form as soon as possible.
However, should Firmino continue to slump, Klopp might be forced to turn to the youngster as he can’t afford to lose his chances of winning a silverware this season all in the sake of being faithful to one player.
Solanke looks desperate and determined to take Firmino’s position in Klopp’s lineup anytime soon.
It remains unknown if Klopp will be tempted to start the 21-year-old against Watford on Saturday to see if he’s physically and mentally ready to remain in the Reds first XI as the season progresses.
Solanke has played 21 Premier matches since he joined the Blues in the 2017-2018 season, scoring just a goal in the process.
Firmino is definitely lacking confidence and this is where Klopp must play his role as manager. He needs to charge up the player’s morale by encouraging him.
If needed, Klopp should drop him from his first XI for three consecutive Premier League games as this will open Firmino’s eyes to the truth that no player is irreplaceable, hence, he will up his game.
The Brazilian has featured in 15 matches so far this campaign, scoring four goals in all competitions
