It has been revealed that Jurgen Klopp is facing a potential striker shortage at Liverpool. The Reds manager has relied heavily on striker Roberto Firmino this term. However, Firmino could face punishment if the FA’s current investigation that the Brazilian racially abused Mason Holgate finds him guilty.
Firmino and Holgate were involved in a spat during Liverpool’s FA Cup match with Everton on January 5. During the exchange, Holgate reacted explosively toward Firmino after the Liverpool striker said something to the defender.
The FA’s investigation is going into its third week, and in the end, could find nothing to prove Firmino was guilty of racially abusing Holgate. However, if found guilty, Firmino’s possible suspension would create a major striker shortage at Liverpool.
Firmino’s backup, Daniel Sturridge, is being linked with a move away from Anfield. The striker has drawn interest from Newcastle and Inter Milan. Meanwhile striker Danny Ings seems far away from the first team despite being fit.
Liverpool are being linked with a shock move for James Rodriguez, who could replace Firmino if he is suspended. The Colombian is currently on loan at Bayern Munich from Real Madrid. However, Rodriguez has a mandatory buy-clause in his deal as Real Madrid were desperate to get rid of him. There are apparently talks ongoing for Rodriguez to join Liverpool as it seems Bayern have soured on him after just six months. The player would be cup-tied in the Champions League.
Firmino’s possible suspension in the Premier League could greatly affect Liverpool’s attempts at a top four finish. Firmino has scored 10 goals and recorded five assists in the Premier League.
Fantasy impact – Roberto Firmino
First it was Philippe Coutinho being sold to Barcelona and now a possible suspension to Firmino. FPL managers will be selling off the player if he is found guilty. A striker shortage at Liverpool could really hurt FPL teams as the Reds attack has been so good this term. If Sturridge or Danny Ings steps into the No. 9 role, the points will be no where near the same. Sturridge and Ings have two goals between them this season.
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