Why is Roberto Firmino NOT playing for Liverpool against Barcelona in their Champions League semi-final?
LIVERPOOL face Barcelona at Camp Nou in their Champions League semi-final first leg, hoping to take something back to Anfield.
But Jurgen Klopp has selected a defensive side to take on the Catalan giants, not least without their Brazilian forward Roberto Firmino.
Why is Roberto Firmino NOT playing against Barcelona?
Roberto Firmino is seen as irreplaceable as part of the attacking trio alongside Sadio Mane and Mohamed Salah.
But his minutes this season have been limited by injuries and was a major doubt heading into this match in Barcelona.
Liverpool boss Klopp had said in his pre-match press conference: “If Bobby is 100 per cent ready to play then he will maybe play.
“He is here, he trained today, we have tomorrow another session and then I have to make decision. That’s it.”
But the Reds manager decided against starting Firmino, instead placing him on the bench if they need some attacking impetus later on in the fixture.
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When is Barcelona vs Liverpool?
The Champions League semi-final first leg will take place TODAY – Wednesday, May 1.
It will kick off at 8pm UK time – that’s 9pm in Spain.
The match will played at Camp Nou.
How can I watch Barcelona vs Liverpool on TV and live stream?
This fixture will be shown live on BT Sport 2.
BT Sport subscribers can live stream the match via the app on their computer, tablet or mobile.
If not, EE phone customers can sign up for a three-month FREE trial – just text SPORT to 150 and follow the instructions.