Liverpool star Roberto Firmino

“Despite the Brazilian netting just 12 times last season, the bigger picture for Jurgen Klopp is that he contributed hugely to Liverpool winning the championship. They were also top of the table going into this weekend’s fixtures with Firmino working and creating rather than scoring.

“I can see why new signing Diogo Jota is receiving praise after his midweek Champions League hat-trick but I’d be mightily surprised if the manager has seriously considered splitting his trusted big three of Mo Salah, Firmino and Sadio Mane at Manchester City.

“It’s not a misjudged sense of loyalty on Klopp’s part. Firmino just fits this Liverpool team, his link play is excellent and it allows Salah and Mane to be at their best in their preferred positions.

“Liverpool won’t dominate possession against City so when they have the ball, they need someone they can rely on to hold it and build play. That‘s Firmino.