'FINAL PHASE'

Philippe Coutinho set to return from injury ahead of Brazil’s clash with England

Livcerpool and Brazil ace injured his abductor ten days ago but has linked up with the Samba squad

PHILIPPE COUTINHO is set to return to training on Wednesday and could face England at Wembley.

The Brazil ace injured his abductor before Liverpool's win against Huddersfield ten days ago but has linked up with the Samba squad.

His country's doctor has revealed that Coutinho is back in the gym and is expected to be working with the ball tomorrow.

After a session in the gym, Rodrigo Lasmar said: “Coutinho felt nothing, it was what we imagined.

“Tomorrow will do a little more intense physical work. If things go well, he will start working on the ball on Wednesday.

“He is in the final phase of recovery. We knew that he would not be fully fit, but we chose to make his final recovery with us.

“The possibility of him playing against Japan is remote, but we work to make sure he’s available against England.

“He may not be able to participate [against Japan]. If he can, he could stay on the bench and play for a few minutes.

“But it’s a small chance. Our focus is to get him back for the second game.”

Brazil face Japan in Lille on Friday before their clash with the Three Lions next Tuesday night.

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