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Mark Lawrenson identifies long-term Roberto Firmino replacement at Liverpool

Will Butcher

Thu 25 June 2020 7:45, UK

of Liverpool’s 4-0 win over Crystal Palace on Wednesday night that Takumi Minamino will eventually replace Roberto Firmino in Jurgen Klopp’s side.

The Reds put one hand on the Premier League trophy with a stunning victory at Anfield, thanks to goals from Trent Alexander-Arnold, Mo Salah, Fabinho and Sadio Mane. Manchester City must beat Chelsea on Thursday.

Minamino was one of five substitutes made by Klopp, with the Japan international entering the field of play in the 74th minute. Liverpool’s domination was such, that Palace failed to record a single shot on target.

Liverpool icon Lawrenson claimed during his coverage of the match that he believes Minamino will not only be a squad player at Anfield, but he will eventually go on to replace 28-year-old Firmino – given he is three years younger.

“I think Takumi Minamino will eventually end up playing where Roberto Firmino plays,” . “On Sunday he kept running into the space where Firmino was, that’s why they didn’t play particularly well.

“But eventually, it’s not going to happen while Firmino is around, he’ll take that spot.”

TBR’s view – Has Minamino got what it takes to replace Firmino?

The hype surrounding Minamino following his move from RB Salzburg was enormous and little surprise. He had scored nine goals and created 11 more even before January and his £7.25million move.

But he has been brought back down to Earth at Liverpool. Not only because the Premier League is a much more challenging environment, but because the fierce competition has prevented him from featuring regularly.

Firmino struggled to begin with at Liverpool, though. Give Minamino time and allow Klopp to work his magic, and the versatile playmaker could finally begin to show why Liverpool have brought him to Anfield.