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Roberto Firmino believes his commitment to “give absolutely everything” has helped him establish a close bond with Liverpool fans.

The Brazil international, who is in the form of his life, scored his 17th goal of the season in the thrilling 4-3 victory over Manchester City.

Firmino sets the tone for Jurgen Klopp's side with his work ethic and he says that was drummed him after he joined German outfit Hoffenheim at the age of 18.

“It’s natural, of course. It comes from the cradle almost.

“I think though that the four years I spent in Germany changed my mentality a great deal. It made me become a lot harder," he told Liverpool.com.

“I work on the basis that I’m never satisfied. I always want to do better and the feeling that I’m never satisfied is my way of motivating myself to be the best I can be.”

On his relationship with Kopites, he added: “I always treat people well. I always stop, it’s never a problem when people want to speak with me. That’s OK with me - I’m never rude to anyone.

“And then on the field I give absolutely everything, I play with all of my heart and that’s why I think it is.

“I’m always a happy person, I’m always smiling. I’m at peace and I think it’s important that you are.”

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Firmino, who is set to be offered a lucrative new contract, has started 28 of Liverpool's 33 games in all competitions so far this season.

Keeping him fit is going to be crucial to the Reds' hope of glory between now and May. The No 9 is desperate to ensure that he lasts the pace.

“I prepare very intensively for all games, physically and mentally."

“I’m always eating the right food, I make sure I eat well, and I believe in God so I pray before all games that I’ll be alright. So I prepare on all levels for games.”

Klopp recently described Firmino as the “engine” of his Liverpool side and the 26-year-old says he owes a debt of gratitude to the Reds boss.

“I like to work hard,” he added.

“I like to drop back and help defend because that then turns into attack, turns into goals, so I don’t mind being called the ‘engine’ of the team.

“I’ve learned a huge amount with the manager, it’s a real honour to be with him. We have a good relationship, it’s excellent.”