Liverpool defender Virgil Van Dijk admitted that he is happy not to face Brazilian star Roberto Firmino in any other competition apart from the training at the club.
Firmino produced another magical display for the Reds as he came off the bench to ensure that Liverpool earns the three points against Newcastle United in a 3-1 win. The 28-year-old played twice for his country in the United States during the international break and, with Liverpool beginning their Champions League defense away to Napoli on Tuesday, Jurgen Klopp opted to rest the forward on the bench.
But an injury to Belgian forward Divock Origi in the first half saw Firmino introduced earlier than intended and he had a swift impact, playing the pass that led to Sadio Mane’s second goal to get Liverpool in front.
The false number nine then claimed a delightful assist with an outrageous flick for his other teammate Mohamed Salah as Liverpool completed a comeback at Anfield. After the game, UEFA Player Of The Year Virgil Van Dijk explained that he is happy not to face Firmino because they are on the same team.
The 28-year-old Dutchman Van Dijk said, “He is a very important player for all of us, I know how difficult it is for a defender when the striker drops his position. He is making life difficult for any defender in the world, I think. He is so good and I am very happy he is on my team.”
Liverpool continued their winning ways and are now five points clear at the top of the Premier League table after five games.
