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Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
Sport
Rich Jones

How Roberto Firmino transfer contributed to Brendan Rodgers' Liverpool exit

Roberto Firmino has become one of Liverpool's most important players under Jurgen Klopp.

But former manager Brendan Rodgers was not convinced - reportedly contributing to his exit from Anfield back in 2015.

According to The Athletic , Rodgers clashed with staff over transfer policy and the decision of Michael Edwards to sign Roberto Firmino was a source of tension.

They claim Rodgers pushed for the signing of Christian Benteke instead, with the Reds ultimately opting to sign both players.

Firmino has gone on to enjoy a stunning rise at Anfield and become a key player, whilst Benteke struggled and was offloaded to Crystal Palace in 2016.

Brendan Rodgers manger of Liverpool talks with Roberto Firmino during a training session at Melwood Training Ground (Getty)

Firmino was not the only signing which was not backed by Rodgers as he clashed with the Anfield hierarchy.

It is claimed he disagreed with the signings of Alberto Moreno and Mamadou Sakho, instead wanting to pursue Ashley Williams and Ryan Bertrand.

Four years after his sacking, Rodgers will return to Anfield with his Leicester City side today.

He recalled the moment he was relieved of his duties after a 1-1 draw at Everton earlier this week.

(Getty Images)

The Northern Irishman recalled: “I was in the car, I had just left Melwood, and I was coming through Stockbridge Village when I got the call.

“I understood. The owners were brilliant for me.

“I thanked them for giving me the opportunity, they were still learning as well. They realised later on that if you do need a centre-half or a goalkeeper you have to pay the money and get in him.”

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