Klopp: Firmino shows why we can't be too quick to judge
Roberto Firmino provides the perfect example of why fans and pundits should not be too hasty in making judgements on any player, according to Jürgen Klopp.
The Brazilian netted his 10th league goal of 2015-16 on Sunday as Watford were beaten 2-0 in the Barclays Premier League - but it hasn't all been plain sailing during his debut season on Merseyside.
With his progress somewhat hampered by a back injury suffered in October, Firmino had only netted once in 22 appearances for the Reds by the turn of the year.
But he now has 11 goals and nine assists to his name in all competitions and has further endeared himself to fans with his tireless work-rate at the top end of the pitch.
Klopp knew all about the attacker's qualities having seen him up close in the Bundesliga, and believes his steady acclimatisation is something everybody can learn from - and apply to future signings.
"It wasn't a surprise to me when I heard people questioning him. That's how it is in Germany too," he told the Liverpool Echo.
"You don't watch too much German football. You get a player from Hoffenheim in Germany and everyone thought: 'oh, a nice signing Liverpool'.
"But not many people here knew him because he wasn't from Bayern, he wasn't from Dortmund.
"I knew about Roberto. When I heard that Liverpool had signed him I thought: 'how have they done this?'
"Now with Roberto you can see the confidence in his work. All the players are more confident than before because they've had more time working together.
"We've had an intense time but it's been a good time together. We know a lot more about each other.
"Watford was the team's 60th game of the season – that's unbelievable. For me, it's only been 49.
"What we can learn from Roberto's situation going forward when it comes to next season's signings is wait to make judgements. Don't be too quick to judge players."