Liverpool have been handed a major fitness boost ahead of their Premier League clash against Southampton as star man Philippe Coutinho is all set for a return. The Brazilian was taken off after 13 minutes of action against Watford and fears arose about his return. However, it looks like things are all fine as the midfield maestro will be fit to face Southampton this coming weekend.
According to The Telegraph, Coutinho suffered a dead leg against Watford but is now back in action for Liverpool as the stakes raise for a top-4 finish with every passing week. Liverpool grabbed 3 important points at Vicarage road last weekend as both Manchester United and Manchester City dropped points. Arsenal lost to Tottenham as well and the weekend was massive considering Liverpool’s result.
This gives a lot of hope for Liverpool to finish in the top-4 and qualify for next season’s Champions League. Even if Manchester United win the Europa League tournament, a 4th place finish would suffice. United take on Celta Vigo in the semifinals of the Europa League and the result will have no impact on Liverpool’s Champions League qualification hopes as long as they hold on to their place in the top-four.
Coutinho was in good spirits immediately after the game as the pain subsided and he will continue his recovery before Liverpool assess if he resumes training with the rest of the first-team squad on Thursday.
Coutinho has been in good form for Liverpool this season and has scored 11 goals in 33 games this season. He also has 8 assists to his name, out of which, 6 have come in the league campaign. He has been immense for Klopp’s side this term and his involvement would have a huge say on Liverpool’s final position in the league table.
This would have come as a lesson for Klopp, who should have realised by now, the importance of adding depth to his squad next season. Liverpool are almost certain to play in Europe next season and hence it would be important to have a deep squad.
