Ally McCoist: Roberto Firmino is 'one of the most intelligent footballers I've seen in a long time'

Ally McCoist has hailed Liverpool forward Roberto Firmino as one of the most intelligent players he has seen in a 'long, long time'.

Firmino played a significant part in Liverpool's 7-1 thrashing of Rangers, with the Brazilian scoring two goals.

In addition to his goalscoring prowess, Rangers legend McCoist was very impressed with Firmino's all-round game, including his link-up play and awareness of space.

McCoist, who played for Rangers between 1983 and 1998, told talkSPORT: 'I think he's one of the most intelligent footballers I've seen in a long, long time. His game awareness and game intelligence is absolutely second to none. Great footballer.

'Quick feet, good in the air. But intelligent, sees it, knows where to go, drops into pockets. I think he's a very, very clever player.'

Firmino scored with a header for his first goal against Rangers and later found the net again after he was latched onto a cross from Joe Gomez.

The 31-year-old also provided an assist for Darwin Nunez as he played a neat ball into the path of his team-mate.

Mohamed Salah scored a six-minute hat-trick, with Harvey Elliott also finding the net.

Despite there being competition for places in attack at Liverpool, Firmino has still managed to muster eight goals in 12 games so far this campaign, while he has also provided four assists.

Firmino's experience and overall quality could be hugely important this season as Liverpool strive for greater consistency following a challenging start to the campaign.

Liverpool take on Manchester City on Sunday and Firmino will be determined to showcase his ability again.