Roberto Firmino has been dubbed the best number nine in the division by Watford’s Troy Deeney.
Firmino is sometimes denied a place in the discussion because his game is significantly different to that of Harry Kane or Sergio Aguero.
But Deeney is able to appreciate that he offers much, much more than just goals.
“I think he’s probably the best number nine in the league,” the Englishman told Soccer Saturday.
“If you’re a manager you want someone that can close down the whole back four on his own, link play, come short, score goals and get assists.
“For me he’s the best around at the moment.”
Firmino certainly lent weight to Deeney’s case with his dazzling performance in the 3-1 win against Newcastle.
A first-half replacement for the injured Divock Origi, he inspired their fightback.
The Brazilian provided two assists, one for Mane and then another for Salah, to take his tally of goal contributions for the season to six.