Newcastle vs Liverpool: Dropping Roberto Firmino is big call from Jurgen Klopp - Carragher

LIVERPOOL boss Jurgen Klopp dropping Roberto Firmino against Newcastle today was a big call, according to Reds legend Jamie Carragher.

Newcastle Liverpool Roberto FirminoSKY SPORTS

Newcastle vs Liverpool: Dropping Roberto Firmino is a big call from Jurgen Klopp, says Carragher

Firmino was replaced in Liverpool’s starting line-up at St James’ Park by Daniel Sturridge.

The Brazilian had started all of the Premier League games to date this season before today.

Carragher says Klopp sees Firmino as one of the most important players in his Liverpool squad.

But has put the decision to leave him out down to a lack of form.

That is a big call for Jurgen Klopp to leave Roberto Firmino out

Jamie Carragher on Liverpool star Roberto Firmino

“They haven’t got one (a finishing touch) in the squad right now, well the team that plays week in, week out,” Carragher said on Sky Sports.

Jurgen Klopp has been picking his best team, Daniel Sturridge is not in it. 

“I think he’s in today because Firmino isn’t in great form. 

“I think Firmino gets back in if he gets to the form that we’ve seen, and I take Graeme’s (Souness) point, he’s not an out-and-out goalscorer. 

Roberto Firmino breaks down after Sevilla clash for penalty miss

Roberto Firmino Liverpool NewcastleSKY SPORTS

Newcastle vs Liverpool: Roberto Firmino had started every Premier League game this season

“But that is a big call for Jurgen Klopp to leave Firmino out. He’s not just resting him, he’s out because he’s not been in great form. 

“He sees Firmino as maybe his most important player, certainly right up there with (Philippe) Coutinho and (Sadio) Mane. 

“He’s the one that starts that press from the front and he’ll accept he doesn’t get the goals because he brings so much to the team. 

“So for him to put Daniel Sturridge in today is a big call to leave one of his main men out. He is a completely different player.”

Klopp's decision didn't pay off as Liverpool were held to a disappointing 1-1 draw.

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