My Firm freund
PREMIER LGE DANNY GETS PALLY TOO
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DANNY WILLIAMS knows just how David Wagner feels as Huddersfield head to Liverpool – because he is looking to get one over on an old mate too.
The United States midfielder is playing down the significance of Wagner’s head-to-head clash with long-standing friend Jurgen Klopp, while relishing his own reunion.
Williams has been pals with Liverpool striker Roberto Firmino since they were team-mates in the German league at Hoffenheim.
“I could see already what a great player he would be,” said Williams. “Everything about his game was good. His first touch is different class, he is quick and has very good technique.
“He is dangerous, especially as he has developed in front of goal since I was with him at 19 and 20. It is clear he has worked hard.”
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Firmino has come a long way since leaving Figueirense, in his native Brazil, to seek stardom with Hoffenheim as a 19-year-old.
He is set to play at his first World Cup next summer, but whatever he achieves over the next 12 months will not go to his head, according to Williams.
“People say success can change a person, but not him,” he said. “He has just followed his dream.
“The last time I played against him was with the national team. He is a great guy who loves his football and his family. It will be nice to see each other again and exchange a few words.”
While Williams is looking forward to catching up with an old friend at Anfield, he is not that bothered about the publicity surrounding Klopp’s contest with Wagner.
“The focus has been on the managers, and we all know about their friendship,” said Williams.
“It is a big story and exciting for people to watch.
“But we leave all that behind us. In the build-up to a game, it has to be about us and how we perform on the pitch.”