Jurgen Klopp believes he would be "really embarrassed" to outline the qualities of Roberto Firmino as he dismissed criticism of the Liverpool forward.
Firmino's form has come under the spotlight in recent weeks having scored only once this season for the Premier League champions and been benched for two of the last three games.
Diogo Jota was selected ahead of the Brazilian for the central striking role at Atalanta in midweek and scored a Champions League hat-trick to move on to seven goals in 10 games, with six coming in his last four outings.
The duo are now most likely vying for a starting role for Sunday's crunch Premier League visit to League Cup winners Manchester City.
But Klopp is adamant Firmino, who has featured in more games during his tenure than any other player, remains a "difference maker" for his team.
“Who is with us I don't have to say one word about Bobby Firmino and how important he was for us, I don't waste time with that," said the Reds boss.
"Who is not with us I don't care if they know about it to be honest.
"He was in so many games the difference maker without scoring maybe, I'm not sure, but with scoring as well in other games.
"I would feel really embarrassed if I had to mention now the qualities of Bobby Firmino.
"I can't help these people, sorry. If they don't see it I cannot help them. That's how it is."
