Anfield’s other Brazilian provided a masterclass in the second leg against Hoffenheim with his coveted countryman Philippe Coutinho absentBarcelona are expected to test Liverpool’s resolve with one final bid for Philippe Coutinho in the next few days before looking around to see if there are any credible alternatives. For the sake of Jürgen Klopp’s peace of mind it is to be hoped they do not settle on his other Brazilian, Roberto Firmino, because in the absence of the little magician this season the former Hoffenheim player has not only stepped up to the plate but also stepped up his game. Related: Liverpool return to big time after early flurry sinks Hoffenheim Continue reading...
The full-back’s performance against Hoffenheim suggests Liverpool may have the first locally born star on their hands since Steven GerrardThe road from academy prospect to first-team regular is one that only a select few complete. The big clubs in particular are simply not prepared to be patient and wait for a raw teenager to make the grade. The demands are too great, the choices in an increasingly heated transfer market too tantalising. So when one does make a breakthrough it feels only right to take notice and especially when he is curling in free-kicks on his Champions League debut. Related: Jürgen Klopp hails Alexander-Arnold’s courage after crucial Liverpool win Related: Liverpool close on Champions League group stage with win at...
There was nothing Hollywood (or FC Hollywood) about Hoffenheim’s victory at the 18th time of trying. It was all very real and credibleAll things come to those who wait, and as Hoffenheim’s owner Dietmar Hopp said as night drew in on Tuesday: “The 18th attempt against Bayern was the most beautiful.”Hopp, the 76-year-old software billionaire whose funds have propelled his local club from village obscurity to the Bundesliga’s podium, had every right to enjoy the moment. His team’s 17-match winless streak against German football’s gold standard had encompassed a mix of near misses and – naturally – a few genuine spankings, but this was no fluke or pig-headed rearguard action. Hoffenheim were simply better than Bayern on the night, even...