PELE believes Liverpool midfielder Philippe Coutinho is one of the best Brazilians currently playing in Europe.
Still only 23, Coutinho has become a firm favourite at Anfield since joining the Reds from Inter Milan for what is now a steal at £8.5million in 2013.
Skilful, creative and with a tremendous long-range shot – with either foot – he’s a key man in manager Jurgen Klopp’s plans for the future.
But it’s his experience that compatriot Pele feels is what has elevated Coutinho – who also spent a period on loan with Espanyol during his time at Inter – to the next level.
Pele told LFC TV:
“Our country has many brilliant players in Europe.
“There are other good young Brazilians in Europe at the moment but they don’t have Philippe’s experience.
“He grew up in Europe, moving to Italy when he was just 17 or 18 – so he’s a more experienced player already.”
There’s no doubt that, on his day, Coutinho is one of the best playmakers in the Premier League.
Consistency is now the key for the Liverpool star and if he can achieve that and continue to improve the defensive side of his game, he’ll surely add to his somewhat disappointing tally of just 12 caps for Brazil.
Is Coutinho the best Brazilian currently in the Premier League?
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Liverpool are in with a great shout of advancing to the last 8 of the Europa League.
Thursday night sees the return leg at Old Trafford where they hold a 2-0 advantage after last week’s opening leg.
Liverpool are 15/8 (2.88) to win in normal time and as short as 1/9 (1.11) To Qualify with Bet365
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