Dietmar Hamann was overjoyed with Liverpool's capture of Roberto Firmino.

Hamann has been following Firmino closely over the last few years during the midfielder's time with German Bundesliga side Hoffenheim and the former Germany international has given his old club's signing of the 23-year old forward his seal of approval.

Speaking to the Liverpool Echo, Hamann said: "I've seen a lot of Firmino and he's a player I like a lot. He's Brazilian but he has played in Germany for a number of years and I've been impressed by how he has developed.

"I've spoken to people who have worked with him and they say he won't be bullied. He has got more of a European than a Brazilian mentality. He is very skilful but he also has the strength and the mentality to survive in the Premier League.

"I watched him a number of times for Hoffenheim last season and I'm sure he will be able to handle playing in England. The Bundesliga is not a league where they don't tackle, the games are physical. I played with Elano at Manchester City and from what I see and hear he reminds me of him as a person. He's able to protect himself."