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| John Aldridge has demanded that Firmino improves his commitment to the physical side of the game |
LIVERPOOL legend John Aldridge has told £29 million Brazilian Roberto Firmino to toughen up if he wants to win over the Kop.
The 24-year-old has come in for criticism following a sequence of uninspiring displays after appearing to have the world at his feet with his outstanding performance in the 4-1 win at Manchester City last month.
Aldridge believes that the biggest crime in the eyes of most Liverpool fans is a lack of commitment in physical challenges.
Aldo pointed to Firmino’s lack of aggression in last weekend’s 2-0 defeat at Newcastle United.
The former Anfield striker said: “He pulled out of a challenge that was 55-45 in his favour. Liverpool fans won’t accept that. I’ve been going to Liverpool games for 50 years and I know that is unacceptable.
“If the ball is there to be won you win it. He’s going to have to learn to get stuck in.”
Firmino’s anonymous display at St. James’ Park was followed by another sub standard showing on Thursday night in Liverpool’s goalless Europa League draw in Switzerland against Sion.
Aldridge added: “Roberto Firmino is playing as if something is wrong mentally and physically. He’s been absolutely redundant in the last two league games after such a great display at Manchester City.”
That has turned the heat on the big signing from Hoffenheim as Liverpool attempt to return to winning ways today on Merseyside against West Brom.
Aldridge added: “West Brom is now a massive game for Liverpool to try to get things back on track. It’s going to be tough because you always know what you get from a Tony Pulis team.
“I’m not getting carried away – I’d take fourth place all day long – but we’ve still got an outside chance of getting involved in the title race.
“It’s the most open Premier League for a long time and anything can happen.”
Keeper Simon Mignolet who is in talks about extending his contract insists that the return of another Brazilian, Philippe Coutinho following injury, is a timely boost.
Mignolet added: “It’s great to have him back. He can roam between the lines and make something happen.
“That’s what we’ve been missing for a few games now.”
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