Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp has hailed forward Roberto Firmino as a "pure footballer" following his impressive form this season.

Firmino, who has 21 goals and 10 assists so far this term, has been prolific in front of goal alongside Sadio Mane and Mohamed Salah at the tip of the Liverpool attack.

Klopp revealed in a press conference earlier this week that he often has to order Firmino away from training, due to the Brazilian's commitment to improving his game.

"He is a pure footballer — he ­always wants to play and work," the German coach told reporters. "For one session in our training camp in Marbella I took him out. He doesn't rest, so I have to do it for him.

"He is a footballer and he feels best when he is on the pitch. Hopefully it stays like this."

Klopp also said this week that he was "really proud" at the way Firmino dealt with a racism claim made against him by Everton's Mason Holgate.