COUTINHO IN BATTLE OF NERVES

JURGEN KLOPP started August with two big objectives – Champions League football and Philippe Coutinho still a major player in his squad.

Part one is in the bag after a whirlwind start blew Hoffenheim straight into the Europa League.

Klopp’s fist-pumping reaction to Liverpool’s goal-blitz underlined he fully understands the importance of Champions League nights at Anfield.

But not until 11.01 pm on the last day of the month will Klopp truly be able to breathe his biggest sigh of relief.

For if Klopp’s bosses keep their nerve and resist another mind-boggling offer for Coutinho (right) it will signal the end of the toughest two months of the German’s reign.

Trying to integrate the Brazilian back into a harmonious dressing room will be a challenge after denying him the chance to link up with Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez – a mouthwatering prospect for any star.

Holding on to ace-in-the-pack Coutinho will only increase the belief that on big European nights at Anfield, Liverpool can match anyone.

But when the group stage draw is made today in Monaco the big boys lying in wait will offer sterner tests than a Hoffenheim side lacking a ruthless mentality. And who’d bet against fate pitching Liverpool against Barcelona. Now that would really play havoc with Coutinho’s emotions.