Divock Origi maintains that ‘the team comes first’ even as he spends more time than he’d like looking on from the sidelines.
Origi’s involvement has largely been restricted to deputising for an absent member of the front three or coming on as a substitute.
He has, of course, been immensely effective in that bit part.
While some players would express grumblings about a lack of opportunities, Origi seems a model professional.
He has total respect for Jurgen Klopp’s calls and is focused on continuing to deliver when called upon.
The Anfield hero’s latest comments are testament to the healthy atmosphere behind-the-scenes.
“First of all, I know the coach makes all the decisions and I can only do whatever I can do and perform at my best,” Origi told Premier League Productions, as quoted by liverpoolfc.com.
“That’s what I try to do in training: to be at my best, to try to do whatever I can. Whatever role I need to play, I know the team comes first and I know we have a very good manager who knows how to deal with us.
“So it’s my duty to be at my best to be able to perform.”
After playing a leading role in his side’s European triumph, Origi is keen to help the Reds to a first Premier League crown.
He says the squad is relishing the prospect of another dogged battle for glory.
“It’s going to be a very tough year in the Premier League again, which makes it interesting,” he said.
“We like a challenge. Mentally, we’re a group of fighters, we go out there and play our game.
“We have a lot of respect for the other teams. It could be a tight race, it’s hard for me to tell.
“What I do know is that we’re very hungry and we’re going to challenge every team and try to win every game possible – and hopefully win something at the end of the year.”
With the front three now back in action, Origi will again mostly be limited to a watching brief.
But rotation will be inevitable over the course of a five-pronged hunt for silverware.