Sky pundit thinks Liverpool player ‘would be absolutely fuming’ if Klopp makes decision

Follow us on Google Discover

Clinton Morrison has told Racing Post that he does not think that Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp will include Diogo Jota in the starting lineup against Manchester City this weekend.

The former Crystal Palace and Birmingham City forward, who now works as a pundit for Sky Sports, believes that Klopp will keep faith in Firmino despite Jota scoring a hat-trick for Liverpool against Atalanta in the Champions League in midweek.

The Portugal international winger has been playing well for the Reds in recent weeks, while Firmino appears to be off his game a bit.

According to WhoScored, Jota has scored three goals in the Premier League and four goals in the Champions League for the Reds so far this season.

Firmino has scored one goal and provided two assists in the Premier League and has played 94 minutes in the Champions League, according to WhoScored.

Morrison believes that Jota would not be happy if Klopp decided to leave him out of the starting lineup.

The former Republic of Ireland international told Racing Post: “There will be times when all four can play together but it’s not in this game and Klopp knows how reliable Firmino has been for him. Firmino is so clever, he can drop into spaces and if it doesn’t work out then you can always get Jota on early.”

Morrison added: “It’s a difficult decision for Klopp but I would be absolutely fuming if I was dropped after scoring a hat-trick, although ultimately I would understand and I know I’d be knocking on the door of getting a starting spot which is what the manager will want.

“Jota is in form and a lot of people will say just let him keep playing. But I’d bet Klopp goes for Firmino for a game that is huge for City. If they lose this it will be a big lead despite the game in hand.”

Roberto Firmino or Diogo Jota?

Firmino may not be at his best now, but the Brazil international has a telepathic understanding with his fellow attacking players Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mane.

Klopp could decide to start Firmino and leave Jota out of the starting lineup, as the Portugal international has proved to be able to make a huge impact as a substitute.