Everything okay between Coutinho and me - Klopp

Jurgen Klopp insists the transfer saga surrounding Liverpool’s Philippe Coutinho has not damaged their relationship and the Barcelona target will be welcomed back with open arms once he is over injury and illness.

The Reds have rejected three bids from Barca for their Brazilian playmaker, and, with the Catalans reportedly ready to admit defeat after their deadline to agree a deal passed, Coutinho is facing up to the fact he will be remaining at Anfield.

A back injury and a current bout of sickness are keeping him out of action, but Klopp stressed that, when he is fit enough to return, there is no need for any clear-the-air talks. “Of course, everything is okay between me and him,” Klopp said. “Absolutely. 100 per cent.”

Coutinho is yet to feature this season due to a back injury and will again be unavailable when the Reds face Hoffenheim in the second leg of their Champions League qualifier at Anfield. Even without Coutinho in Germany last week Liverpool claimed a 2-1 victory to ensure they have the advantage ahead of the return leg on Merseyside.