Express. Home of the Daily and Sunday Express.
Jurgen Klopp: This Liverpool star proved he is a world-class talent against Everton
JURGEN KLOPP has heaped praise on Philippe Coutinho following his performance in the win over Everton at the weekend.
Liverpool ace Coutinho recreates Bergkamp's wonder goal
Coutinho scored just his second goal for Liverpool in 2017 in the 3-1 win over Merseyside rivals Everton on Saturday.
Since picking up an injury over the winter period, Coutinho has struggled to regain his early-season form.
But the 24-year-old returned from international duty with Brazil, in which he scored a stunning goal in the 3-0 win over Paraguay, in fine form.
Jurgen Klopp believes Philippe Coutinho is world-class
Philippe Coutinho has established himself as one of Liverpool's star performers
And Jurgen Klopp believes his performance against Everton was proof that Coutinho should be regarded as one of the world's best footballers.
"Sadio's absence provides an opportunity for others to step up and take the chance presented," Klopp wrote in the matchday programme for tonight's match against Bournemouth.
"There were great examples of this on Saturday – some outstanding performances.
Coutinho scored just his second Liverpool goal in 2017 against Everton
"Philippe demonstrated his credentials as a player worthy of 'world-class' status. And I'm not referring to the goal, which was a moment of beauty.
"I mean his all-round performance, sacrificing himself for the team – working as hard defensively as he did offensively.
"OK, so the goal was nice, but as a coach and manager it's the entire performance you judge and this was a player fighting and battling for his team.
"For him and Roberto [Firmino] I can only say how impressive this was when you factor in the week previous, with their travelling and involvement for the national team. Attitude to mirror their ability – good combination."
Would you like to receive news notifications from Daily Express?