Roberto Firmino says he does not see Diogo Jota as a personal rival – and believes Liverpool’s celebrated attack is even stronger with his new teammate on board.
Jota, 23, has made an outstanding start to his Liverpool career following a surprise £41million move from Wolves in September.
After seven goals in 11 games it has even been suggested that Jota is getting an iron grip on Firmino’s slot in the front three with Mo Salah and Sadio Mane.
But Brazilian Firmino said: “Liverpool have a great squad of players, so earning a starting position here is not easy at all, and I am used to that.
“Diogo is an excellent footballer and another companion in the squad.
“We all work hard during the week and then the coach decides who comes out. So, I don’t have any personal battle with him.”
He added: “Liverpool’s attack line is spectacular, and I would say comparable to any in the world, in any of the major leagues. Now this year I see it as being even better. And it’s not emotion that makes me say this, but simply a result of looking at the statistics.
“As for me, I work hard in training – and then on the field I do what Jurgen Klopp tells me. That is my working philosophy, always.”
Who will come out on top as Liverpool host Leicester? Have your say here.
Jota has scored six goals in the last five games for his new club and, when you take into account his goals for Portugal, he has already reached double figures for the season.
Firmino, 29, has scored just once for Liverpool since July.
But he is famous for knitting Anfield’s holy trinity together, and is one of the players who has been there from the very start under Klopp, having been signed by the German’s predecessor Brendan Rodgers.
Firmino is looking forward to Sunday's clash with Leicester and lining up against his old gaffer.
He said: “Brendan is a good coach. I didn’t have him as a boss for long, but he supported my arrival at Liverpool.
“It’s a very good Leicester team and no surprise they have been at the top of the table.
“I see them as being in the fight for the title – but we can say the same.”
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