Firmino aims to emulate impact of stars Ronaldo, Ronaldinho
Roberto Firmino says he and Liverpool team-mate Philippe Coutinho are aiming to emulate the impact Ronaldo and Ronaldinho had on Brazil.
Firmino is a key component of a new-look national side revamped after the humiliating 7-1 defeat to Germany in last summer's World Cup semi-final.
With 10 international caps to his name, the former Hoffenheim man starred as the Selecao reached the Copa America quarter-finals this summer, with club team-mate Coutinho by his side.
Despite being snubbed in the latest squad by manager Dunga, Coutinho represents one of a number of bright young talents emerging from the South American country, and Firmino believes he and his new team-mate can replicate the effect two of the legends of the game - Ronaldo and Ronaldinho - had on the country.
"It would be hard for anyone to be as good as Ronaldinho or Ronaldo but me and Philippe are going to do our best to get close to them and be the best players we can be for Brazil," Firmino told reporters.
"It was ugly what happened in the World Cup semi-final against Germany but there are new players in Brazil to turn things around and who can show that Brazil still has lots of talent to be successful."
Liverpool completed the signing of Firmino straight after the Copa America, in which Firmino impressed for the national side.
He added: "I knew about Liverpool's interest before the tournament," Firmino says. "And I instantly thought it would be an interesting idea for me because I knew Lucas and Coutinho were playing here.
"I had the chance to play alongside Philippe for the national team so I spoke to him about Liverpool and I knew it would be a great opportunity. He said it's a great club with a great squad and a great team spirit."
Due to his summer exertions, Firmino has been eased into life in the Premier League following his move from the Bundesliga, appearing in both of Liverpool's games so far from the bench. Regardless, he believes he is capable of starting the clash against Arsenal on Monday.
"That is my aim but there's a healthy competition in the squad right now and the manager knows who should be starting games," he said.
"All I can do is keep on working so I will be ready when I am given the chance to start."
