Jurgen Klopp reveals injury-plagued striker could start against Rubin Kazan

Christian Benteke's Chelsea performance might have ended Roberto Firmino's chances up front

JURGEN KLOPP has revealed Christian Benteke is now a 'big step ahead' of Roberto Firmino in his selection plans.

 

The Belgium international has been in and out of the side with injuries this term, and started on the bench against Chelsea.

Firmino led the line instead for the Reds in the 3-1 win at Stamford Bridge, playing the role of a false number nine.

 

However, Benteke's appearance from the bench and subsequent goal seems to have renewed Klopp's confidence in him.

"The decision between Roberto and Christian... Christian was not 100 per cent, so he needs time to play," he said. 

"Now he is a big step ahead so we can plan with him.

"He played against Southampton, then Bournemouth he couldn't – little problems. We could bring him on with fresh legs. That's perfect."

But that's not to say the German has completely done away with playing Firmino up top, praising the Brazil international's 'creative' qualities.

Christian Benteke celebrates scoring Liverpool's third goal against Chelsea

"Roberto is very important in this position for us because he can hold the ball," he explained.

"He plays between the lines and he is very creative. He can do much better, that's the good news, but it was not too bad."

After winning their first game under Klopp on Saturday, the Reds will now be looking to push on in the Europa League, travelling to Rubin Kazan on November 5 (6.00pm).