Liverpool: Reds had to sack Brendan Rodgers says summer signing Roberto Firmino

Roberto Firmino has backed Liverpool's decision to show Brendan Rodgers the exit door after a string of poor performances during his time at Anfield. The Reds relieved him of his duties just hours after a 1-1 draw in the Merseyside derby in October.

The former Swansea manager signed Firmino from Hoffenheim in the summer. The Brazil international revealed he considered Rodgers as a "great manager," despite having spent just months under the ex-Liverpool boss.

"It was a short period [under Rodgers]. I considered him a great manager but I didn't get much playing time under him. When results don't come along, it is a must to switch managers," Firmino said, as quoted by the Liverpool Echo.

Jurgen Klopp replaced Rodgers as manager at Liverpool and since the former Borussia Dortmund took over the reins at the club, they have lost only one match in all competitions. They suffered a 2-1 defeat at the hands of Crystal Palace before the international break.

The Merseyside club bounced back with a 4-1 victory over Manchester City at the Etihad as the South American attacker scored his first league goal in a Liverpool shirt. Firmino is delighted to have the German boss at the club and claims the Reds are moving in the right direction under the new manager.

"I think Klopp has the typical Germany mentality, which I am used to as I played for four years in Germany," he explained.

"I do like his German methods, he concentrates and focuses on what he wants. I think he will help us. We are already getting what he wants from us. He brings good vibes, we are on a positive path and we are always aiming high."

Liverpool defender Alberto Moreno had earlier blasted Rodgers for failing to keep faith in him. The Spaniard went on to reveal that he is feeling comfortable playing under Klopp and has been a regular inclusion in the left side of the back four after Joe Gomez has been ruled out for the most part of this season with an injury.