Liverpool star says national boss has very different instructions for him than Klopp

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Roberto Firmino has told FIFA.com that Brazil manager Tite gives him very different instructions to Jurgen Klopp at Liverpool.

Firmino is Liverpool’s first line-up of defence, and is regularly praised for his work-rate and tenacity at Anfield.

But Tite has actually told Firmino that he has been doing too much work defensively while on international duty.

The Brazil boss wants the Liverpool striker to stay high up on the pitch, rather than being dragged back into deep areas.

And Firmino admits that he has to adjust his style quite heavily when representing his country.

“It’s not that he asked me not to help out, but he wants me to always be in the area,” Firmino said.

“I still have to get back to mark, but he wants me to chase back less after the ball, be in the box more.

“I have a natural urge to help out, get back – I do this for Liverpool – so I have put this aside and do what Tite has asked of me. I enjoy being involved in play, creating goals, but I also enjoy being in the box, scoring goals.”

Klopp will be hoping that Firmino quickly switches back to his usual hard-working style in time for the weekend.

Liverpool take on an in-form Everton side in the Merseyside derby on Saturday, when Firmino’s defensive instincts are likely to be hugely important.