Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has admitted that he is looking forward to working with Roberto Firmino once he returns to full fitness.
The attacking midfielder moved to Anfield from Hoffenheim for £29m in the summer, but is still waiting to open his account for the Merseysiders after suffering a back injury last month.
Klopp, who came up against the Brazil international during his time in charge of Borussia Dortmund, has said that he is aware of the qualities that Firmino brings to a team.
"One year ago he was for a few months for sure the best player in the Bundesliga," the German coach told Liverpool's official website.
"From the first day on everybody could see he can be a very, very good player. When I heard Liverpool took him I thought, 'good choice'.
"He was injured but when he came in you could see he's strong, he's fast in a good football way. He's an important player for us and I hope he can play."
Liverpool take on Bournemouth in the fourth round of the League Cup this evening.