Firmino should start ahead of Jesus, insists pundit

Firmino should start ahead of Jesus, insists pundit

Former Barcelona, Celtic and Manchester United striker Henrik Larsson has insisted Brazil need to start Liverpool forward Roberto Firmino in place of Gabriel Jesus up front.

Firmino came off the bench to score Brazil’s second in their 2-0 victory over Mexico on Monday, meaning he has now scored and assisted in the last two appearances he has made for Tite’s side.

Gabriel Jesus is Brazil’s first choice No.9 to partner Neymar and Willian up front, but he is yet to make an impact for the team and Firmino looks a constant threat whenever he is introduced.

Speaking as a pundit on ITV, former Sweden striker Larsson urged Brazil to drop Jesus in favour of the Liverpool forward.

“This is a tap in but he’s there at least,” Larsson said.

“But you have to think a little bit now, four games [into the tournament that] Jesus hasn’t scored in.

“He comes on and scores with his first touch more or less.

“You have to start thinking about it.

“I also think that with Firmino in the team, there is a little bit better hold-up play and also combination play with him when he’s playing compared with when Jesus is playing.”

Brazil have a wealth of talent in the final third of the pitch, and there’s no question that Jesus is a top forward, but perhaps it is time for Tite to consider giving Firmino a start.