Liverpool put in an accomplished performance to overcome Crystal Palace 2-0 at Selhurst Park in the Premier League on Monday evening, but some fans have taken to Twitter to express their disappointment with the display of striker Roberto Firmino.
A penalty from James Milner and a second-half strike from Sadio Mane sealed the three points for Liverpool, who joined five other teams with a maximum return from the first two games of the new season.
Many fans were however unhappy with Brazil international Firmino’s performance, with the 26-year-old off the pace for the second game running.
Live 4 Liverpool have rounded up some of the best tweets:
https://twitter.com/conorYNWA1/status/1031665477024657409
Firmino and Salah look really rusty, probably just a fitness thing
— A (@AJXR45) August 20, 2018
Negatives from tonight? Firmino was poor, looked tired and little jaded. Can see Sturridge starting on Saturday.
Trent’s delivery wasn’t the best, certainly in the first half. In the 2nd half seemed to be “punching” in his crosses, to borrow a golfing term.
— The Smiling Assassin (@TSmilinAssassin) August 20, 2018
https://twitter.com/shaun22444022/status/1031665125147729920
Firmino? One of the worst games he's ever had for us
— Now Jurgen-a Believe Us (@WhatAHetSon) August 20, 2018
https://twitter.com/FakeTaxiFirmino/status/1031663159554310144
Firmino poor form has been every game since he came back from World Cup. Never looked convincing in pre-season & looked poor vs West Ham among with tonight.
Sturridge should start Vs Brighton imo
— TrentBall (@Dijkinho) August 20, 2018
Firmino didn't show up..still finding his sharpness
— Kingsley (@Kingsley_758) August 20, 2018
https://twitter.com/3kaas/status/1031654172884721664
OPINION
These fans seem pretty uninspired by Firmino’s display, and you can see why. The Brazilian did not look his usual self against Palace, and much like against West Ham the weekend before, he seemed to drop slightly deep to affect the game in his normal way. His fitness also looks to be lacking after his exploits at the World Cup with Brazil, and that may be the main reason behind his lack of form to start the season. Hopefully he can build that up over the next few weeks and get back to his brilliant best for the Reds very soon. Many of these fans acknowledge that fact, and some seem hopeful that he will come good in the coming weeks. Overall it was an accomplished performance from Jurgen Klopp’s men, who dispatched a stubborn and talented Palace side with relative ease. The Reds next face a home clash with Brighton, who will be full of confidence after their win over Manchester United on Sunday.
