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Liverpool's Roberto Firmino withdraws from Brazil squad due to injury

Roberto Firmino of Liverpool
Image: Roberto Firmino is set for a spell on the sidelines

Liverpool forward Roberto Firmino has pulled out of the Brazil squad for next month’s World Cup qualifiers due to injury.

The 23-year-old was replaced during the first half of Liverpool's Capital One Cup penalty shoot-out victory over Carlisle after landing awkwardly following a challenge for a high ball. 

Firmino will miss Brazil's World Cup qualifying matches against Chile, on October 8, and Venezuela, on October 13. He has been replaced by veteran forward Ricardo Oliveira, currently of Brazilian club Santos.

News of Firmino's injury will come as a major concern to Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers, who now looks set to be without their £21.3m summer signing for the upcoming Premier League matches with Aston Villa and Everton. 

Firmino, who arrived from German club Hoffenheim, will also miss the Europa League group game with Sion on October 1. 

A statement from the Brazilian FA read: "Ricardo Oliveira, the top goalscorer in the Brazilian league with 17 goals, was called up by Brazil coach Dunga. 

"The Santos striker will take the place of Liverpool striker Firmino, who was released because of injury."

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Firmino has made 7 appearances in all competitions for Liverpool this season but has yet to complete 90 mins or score a goal.

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