Brigning a modern punch of Brazilian flair to the Premier League and a German work rate that has installed him as Jurgen Klopp's frontman, Roberto Firmino has a unique footballing D.N.A. that has allowed him to flourish on the European scene. From roots to boots, we catch ten minutes with Liverpool's number 9.

Roberto, how was your summer break?



I enjoyed it very much thank you. I spent most of my time in Brazil and I had a lot of fun, responsibly of course! After two or three weeks I was already looking forward to coming back, and about half way through my break I started to work to prepare for pre-season and to come back feeling fresh to start the new campaign.



Congratulations on getting married. How much fun was it to share the experience with your Liverpool teammates?



I was very happy and honoured that they were there. It was a long trip for them. I feel very close to the players and colleagues at the club so it was great for them to come over and for them to be my best men. In Brazil we have several best men. Everyone enjoyed the wedding and the party afterwards, and I’m so happy they could share that day with me.



It's always nice to head home. How would you describe your football upbringing in Brazil?



I think that footballers are born with a gift but that you can make your own talent better as you grow older. I played a lot when I was young. I fought a lot and I struggled a lot too, but I would fight every day to become better and be where I am today.

What are your memories of moving from your hometown as a 16 year-old to Figueirense in Serie B?



The first year that I moved away from home was very hard for me. I was only 16 but I didn't let that interfere as I was very focused on achieving my goals and knew I had a great opportunity to reach the top of the game. Being away from my family was tough at the beginning but I knew that if I did work hard and achieved what I wanted to achieve then the rewards would follow and I would be able to see my family more and look after them.



Your evolution as a player is an interesting one. Didn't you start out as a defender?



Yeah that’s true. When I was very young I started playing as a defensive midfielder, I also played as a right back and also as a central defender but mostly as a defensive midfielder. As I got older the coaches kept moving me forwards until I was playing as an offensive midfielder and striker, which is where I love playing now. It feels natural and allows me to express myself.