Hoffenheim coach Julian Nagelsmann has declared Roberto Firmino as among the "top five strikers in the world".

Firmino was only moved centrally on a consistent basis this season by Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp.

Nagelsmann stated: "Of course, I follow his development. Unfortunately, we also played against him. He is one of the top five strikers in the world. He is certainly one of the top three in the Premier League.

"He is not a brutal striker, but he has an interesting overall package - an average of 15 goals and 15 assists. This is very unusual for a striker.

"Firmino always has a look for the next man."

Another plus: his defensive understanding, as Nagelsmann explains: "What sets him apart from many other strikers is his work off the ball. What he does in the high tempo league of England every three days is extraordinary."