Liverpool star Firmino breaks silence after being left out of Brazil’s World Cup squad

Liverpool forward Roberto Firmino has detailed his agony subsequent to being avoided with regard to Brazil’s 26-man crew for the World Cup in Qatar.

The 31-year-old was among those facing an excruciating wait tinged with uncertainty in the build up to Tite’s formal announcement on Monday but on this occasion, it did no go the way of Jurgen Klopp’s indispensable frontman.

Brazil have arguably the strongest squad on paper ahead of the mid-season tournament in Qatar and Firmino has fallen victim to the array of attacking quality at the Selecao’s disposal.

Antony, Gabriel Jesus, Gabriel Martinelli, Neymar, Pedro, Raphinha, Richarlison, Rodrygo and Vinicius Jr make up Tite’s star-studded options in attack – meaning there was no space for Firmino or former Liverpool team-mate Coutinho as Arsenal centre-back Gabriel Magalhaes also missed out in defence.

Firmino, who previously represented and scored for Brazil at the 2018 World Cup in Russia, has now taken to Instagram to express his devastation at the decision, writing: “Passing by to say thank you for all the lovely messages. The World Cup is a dream for every player and with me it wouldn’t be any different.

“Yesterday things didn’t go the way I imagined or dreamed for my life but I can look back and have a grateful heart to God that he has already allowed me to live that dream as well as so many others. You, Lord, will keep in perfect peace him whose purpose is firm, because he trusts in you.

“(Isaiah 26:3) I take this opportunity here to pay my respect and congratulate all the summoned. It was, is, and will always be an honor to defend my country especially with the gift the Lord gave me. I stay here confident that God has the best for me and hoping that hexa comes.

“For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. (Jeremiah 29:11) #Jesusisenough.”

Firmino started the campaign like a house on fire, netting six Premier League goals in his first seven outings for the Reds this season – including braces against Bournemouth and Brighton at Anfield.

His form in front of goal has since deteriorated but he has still scored (8) three more goals than Arsenal’s Gabriel Jesus (5) and six more goals than Richarlison (2) this term in all competitions having also netted twice in a 7-0 Champions League win at Rangers.