Liverpool manager Jürgen Klopp offered praise to Roberto Firmino ahead of the Reds' game against Chelsea on Wednesday, lauding the forward as proof that you musn't judge a signing too soon after they've moved to a new club.

Having made a big money move to L4 from Bundesliga side Hoffenheim last summer, the Brazilian struggled to light things up on Merseyside throughout the early part of the season.

Firmino has become fan favourite after tricky start

With Liverpool struggling for form at the start of the season, Firmino was often played out of position by Brendan Rodgers, before a back injury ruled him out for a lengthy period.

However, his recovery since those opening months has been electric, and has now scored 11 goals in all competitions after getting off the mark in November. 10 of those have come in the league, accompanied by seven assists, giving him the biggest goal contribution of any Reds player.

Klopp feels that Brazilian's story is an example of why patience is key

When asked about Firmino's upturn in form, Klopp explained that he "wasn't surprised" to hear that there were some intial doubters. This wasn't because he didn't rate the player, the manager insisted, instead because "it is the same in Germany" when a new player is signed.

Firmino has become a fan favourite since Klopp's appointment (photo: UEFA)
Firmino has become a fan favourite since Klopp's appointment (photo: UEFA)

He cited that he and the players have had an "intense time" since he took over, but also "a good time together". This is easy to see in Firmino, Klopp stating that you can "see the confidence in his work".

Always one to give players a fair chance, Klopp spoke of how the fans and media "can learn from Roberto's situation". With the German expected to begin moudling his own Liverpool squad this summer, he said "don't be too quick to judge players".

Liverpool fans certainly won't mind being patient, should they get a few more Firmino's through the door.

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