Express. Home of the Daily and Sunday Express.
Roberto Firmino injury: Liverpool boss offers huge update ahead of Middlesbrough clash
JURGEN KLOPP is optimistic over Roberto Firminos's chances of playing in Liverpool's final game of the season against Middlesbrough (3pm).
Roberto Firmino could face Middlesbrough
Firmino missed last weekend's 4-0 thumping of West Ham after taking a knock in the goalless draw with Southampton the game before.
The Brazilian sat out of Liverpool's training session yesterday, suggesting he's unlikely to feature against Boro.
But Klopp insists Firmino still has a chance of playing on Sunday and will make a late fitness decision on the 25-year-old.
The Reds need to win at Anfield in order to secure Champions League football next season, with fifth-placed Arsenal sat just one point behind.
** CHECK OUT LIVERPOOL'S LATEST TRANSFER NEWS AND GOSSIP HERE **
Roberto Firmino missed Liverpool's training yesterday
Roberto Firmino could play for Liverpool against Middlesbrough
"[It's] very positive," Klopp said when asked for an update on Firmino.
"We could not decide until now, but he feels good and he feels comfortable.
"He did a lot of things, but was not part of team training. That's not a problem after this long season.
"I think we will make a final test tomorrow. In this moment, I would rather say 'yes' than 'perhaps', but I am not sure."
Jurgen Klopp to make a late call on Liverpool forward Roberto Firmino
Firmino has been a key player for Liverpool this season, scoring 12 goals and providing 10 assists in his 40 appearances across all competitions.
Should Firmino sit out of the Boro game, Daniel Sturridge is expected to keep his place in the Liverpool attack.
The England international, who has struggled with injuries all season, bagged a brace to sink West Ham at the London Stadium.