It may have only been their first hour of football since signing for Liverpool this summer but both Christian Benteke and Roberto Firmino did enough to leave Brendan Rodgers with a smile on his face after a narrow 2-1 win over Swindon.
The new boys hadn’t featured for the Reds prior to the game on Sunday but both players have given Rodgers food for thought ahead of next Sunday’s Premier League opener against Stoke.
Speaking to Liverpoolfc.com, Rodgers said: “Christian’s goal was incredible, whether it was a pre-season friendly or in a league or cup game. It was wonderful technique from the big guy.
“The other guys started to get some minutes under their belt; Firmino, Emre Can, boys that have come back a bit later. It was pleasing all round.
“It finished off our pre-season preparations – a number of guys needed a game today. It was a really good exercise.”
Benteke joined the Reds a few weeks ago but was left at Melwood to train with Firmino, whilst the rest of the squad continued the club’s tour and the Brazilian, having been with his country at the Copa America, was given extra rest before starting his training for the new season and both were in need of some game time.
Firmino looked classy and full of flair, going close on a couple of occasions and was denied what perhaps should have been a penalty. Benteke on the other hand worked his way into the game slowly before capping off his display with a goal of consummate quality.
Rodgers must now decide whether either player will feature against Stoke next week; a match that Rodgers must surely know is a key game for him, having last played Stoke in an end of season 6-1 defeat and a win is probably a must.
Should either (or both) players start next Sunday? Let us know your thoughts below.
They Both should start they weren’t bought to sit on the bench
Y nt….. they are brought to the club to increase the depth…. So they must be allow to display their skill, pace, finishing and strenght!!!!!!!
BR should Start both 2 2geda, 4 sure no hinding place 4 stoke
both shoul comme on for the second half
Both should be on the starting 11
Definitely start both of them