Liverpool star Philippe Coutinho hands Jurgen Klopp a huge boost when quizzed on failed Barcelona move
Brazilian star grabbed his first-ever Champions League goal in the 1-1 draw with Spartak Moscow
PHILIPPE COUTINHO delivered the words which will have been music to Jurgen Klopp’s ears.
The Brazilian star grabbed his first-ever Champions League goal in the 1-1 draw with Spartak Moscow.
When asked about his failed bid to join Barcelona, he said: “I’m calm. It’s all passed by, I’m here to defend the colours — to give my maximum.”
Liverpool are finally able to select their ‘Fab Four’ for a Premier League game — but this could be a potential pitfall for boss Klopp.
Coutinho, Sadio Mane, Roberto Firmino and Mo Salah all played together against Spartak for the first time this season.
With Coutinho fit again, after his various illnesses which occurred when he wanted to move to Barca, Klopp has some excellent options.
Now Mane’s three-match domestic ban is complete, he will also be eligible for Sunday’s trip to Newcastle.
But just because he played the foursome against the Russians does not mean Klopp should do the same against Newcastle away.
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The same applies to the Manchester United clash on October 14.
Coutinho scored a cracker while on the left of a midfield-three with Jordan Henderson and Emre Can.
In fairness, he worked hard and did his defensive duties rather than just drift around in attacking areas leaving Liverpool more of a 4-2-4.
But Coutinho should not stay in the central area against United.
Jose Mourinho’s men have too much midfield power. Instead, Klopp should keep Coutinho in the front three and rotate those players.
Where the Fab Four leaves Daniel Sturridge is anyone’s guess. His Reds career is going backwards.
Spartak boss Massimo Carrera said Chelsea chief Antonio Conte had provided inside info on Liverpool.
The pair were Juventus pals and Carrera said: “We talked about our teams, personal affairs — but what he said about the British, I needed.”
But Liverpool turned what should have been an away win in Moscow into a damaging draw. So whoever plays up front, the Reds must take their chances against Newcastle.
