1 Dec 2016

Redknapp insists: Klopp should replace Coutinho with 'truly magnificent' €38m attacker as Liverpool's main 'playmaker'

With Philippe Coutinho now injured, who will pick up the mantle and become Liverpool's main playmaker?

Jurgen Klopp has several viable options, but according to ex-Red Jamie Redknapp:

"Klopp may have to alter the way Liverpool play. Roberto Firmino could have to change his role and become the playmaker, with Divock Origi as a striker".

Firmino has spent much of this season playing as a centre-forward, and with 8 goals/assists in 10 games, the Brazilian is clearly thriving in that role.

Indeed, Firmino's overall record as a striker/secondary striker for Liverpool is excellent:

* 29 goals/assists in 38 games (One every 108 mins)

As such, it's a risk to move Firmino to a different position, especially when his output in other roles is comparatively poor. Examples:

* Number 10: 0 goals/1 assist In 13 games (One every 670 mins).

* Left/Right Wing: 3 goals/1 assist in 12 games (One every 183 mins).

The question is, Can Origi be as prolific as Firmino in the centre-forward role, and will his goals compensate for the inevitable reduction in Firmino's goals/assists output if he is shifted out wide?

In my view, Origi should only move into the centre-forward role when Mane goes to the African Cup of Nations. Until then, Firmino should stay as the club's main striker, with Mane and Lallana either side of him.

* Firmino: €38m-rated (CIES Football Observatory). Hailed last month as 'truly magnificent' by Phil Thompson


0 Comments:

Post a Comment