Shearer hails Roberto Firmino, and Newcastle could do much worse than to sign him

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Newcastle United legend Alan Shearer last night heaped praise on Liverpool star Roberto Firmino, after the star scored a vital goal against Arsenal.

The Brazilian started the game as a substitute. But he was sent on in the second-half in place of Diogo Jota, who had opened the scoring.

It took Firmino just eight minutes to make an impact, as he ghosted in to tap home Andy Robertson’s low cross.

Arsenal had been playing fairly well in the game.

And so, Firmino scoring when he did was hugely important for the Reds and a crushing blow for Arsenal.

Liverpool, of course, are trying to chase down Manchester City at the top of the Premier League.

Getting three points last night has now taken them to within a point of Pep Guardiola’s side. And Liverpool can go top, perhaps only briefly, with another win this weekend as they play before City.

Firmino received praise from Alan Shearer for the way he made space to score his goal.

The Toon legend wrote on Twitter: “The movement from Firmino for his goal is outstanding.”

It is something we have seen plenty of times before down the years from Firmino, who has been a great servant for the Liverpool.

Given Shearer’s compliment, one wonders if this is a player Newcastle should actually be looking to sign this summer.

Newcastle could do much worst than to sign Roberto Firmino, after Shearer praise

Newcastle will have much more time this summer to identify and pursue their targets than in January.

Arguably, Firmino should be on their list.

This season, for the first time really since his arrival at Anfield, Firmino has found himself on the bench fairly regularly.

That has been due to a few injury issues he has had. But also the form of Diogo Jota, who has really found his feet in his second season with the club.

In January, Liverpool went out and bought Luiz Diaz from FC Porto. The acquisitions of Jota and Diaz are clear signs that Liverpool are preparing for life after Firmino.

He’ll only have a year left on his contract this summer, meaning there’s potentially a good deal to be had.

He cost Liverpool £29 million back in 2015 (BBC Sport), and the club will likely not be able to recoup all of that original fee.

Forgetting about the potential finances involved though, Firmino would likely make a really good signing for Newcastle.

He is someone who knows the Premier League, and has scored goals and made assists in the division for years.

Playing in that Jurgen Klopp team means he’s someone who works his socks off. It’s something that would make him an instant hit with Eddie Howe.

Potentially, he might just fancy the idea of linking up with his fellow countrymen Joelinton and Bruno Guimaraes, and embarking on an exciting new project at Newcastle.

Obviously, there will be a desire to sign a real top quality marksman.

But getting someone like Firmino, with his know-how, intelligence and work-rate, could be a masterstroke.