Jurgen Klopp Wants Fresh Contract Extension For Roberto Firmino
Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has urged the club’s hierarchy to commit Roberto Firmino to a new long-term contract. The Brazil international has been one of the many standout performers for the Merseyside giants, and he has stepped up his game following the departure of compatriot Philippe Coutinho to Barcelona in January.
Speaking to reporters, Klopp highlighted the need to prolong the stay of Firmino, who is presently contracted until the summer of 2020. The former Hoffenheim man has contributed 22 goals over the course of the current campaign, and the manager believes it is essential for the club to avoid a similar instance to Coutinho, who was desperate for a move to Catalonia.
He said: “It is very important for both sides. Everything we are doing, the way we play, the way we give him the opportunity constantly to play, he deserves that. He deserves that because his work rate is outstanding but it helped him a lot to step up. He became a different player here. Other teams can say: Hmmm, he’s really good’ but it is not sure they will play the same way and use him as a nine or a 10 or they’ll use him out on the wings. It is never sure but it is important to keep these players who are at a good age and when there is still space for improvement.”
With Coutinho’s departure, a number of other players have contributed towards the Reds’ progress, and Klopp is aware of the unity within the squad. Whilst Mohamed Salah continues to get most of the plaudits for the club’s form, Klopp has also placed emphasis on prolonging the stay of Sadio Mane, who was the Reds’ Player of the Year during his maiden season last term.
Liverpool are currently third in the Premier League standings with 57 points, but they could potentially close the two-point gap to second-placed Manchester United when they face-off at Old Trafford later this month. Prior to that, both teams have games against Newcastle United and Crystal Palace respectively which they will expect to win.