Liverpool’s early-season prospects have been boosted by news that Roberto Firmino is set to be omitted from Brazil’s Olympic squad.
An unenviable start to their Premier League campaign sees the Reds facing trips to Arsenal, Tottenham and Chelsea, as well as welcoming reigning champions Leicester City to Anfield in their opening five games.
But Jurgen Klopp can now call on the services of Firmno after he was omitted from Brazil’s provisional squad ahead of the games in their homeland this summer.
The former Hoffenheim attacker was widely expected to be named in Rogerio Micale’s line-up as one of three designated over-age players after being overlooked for the Copa America.
However both Firmino and compatriot Philippe Coutinho are certain to begin the new season back at Anfield after Neymar, Willian, Thiago Silva, Douglas Costa and Fernando Prass were all name as Brazil’s provisional over-age players.