Coutin’ a deeper role
> New position designed to free Brazilian from crowded middle
LIVERPOOL’S AUDI Cup semifinal win over Bayern Munich could give rise to an inevitable amount of premature optimism, but a win over the European elite is nonetheless a big part of the team-building process, regardless of yesterday’s final loss to Atletico Madrid.
Philippe Coutinho began the match against Bayern at the Allianz Arena in central midfield, a role he has filled with regularity this pre-season, before reverting to his left-sided role of last term for his short spell on the pitch after the break.
It’s a switch which could yield enormous benefits for Liverpool in the campaign ahead, with Coutinho’s vision and ability to exploit space dovetailing perfectly with the speed and movement ahead of him, particularly in light of new signing Mohamed Salah settling in so impressively.
Put to manager Jurgen Klopp whether moving Coutinho into the middle was planned or a reaction to no summer signings in that area of the park, he highlighted the versatility of his No. 10 as much as his quality.
“We looked at the players we had available and decided (Coutinho) could play there. He can play both roles.”
The message is clear: Coutinho remains a critical part of the side wherever he plays, and his involvement for the Reds in the new Premier League season will be as much a part of any potential success as Salah’s pace, a new defensive signing or perhaps the manager himself.
Naby Keita, a big Liverpool target this summer who it now appears they will not be signing, has the capacity to break frustrating opposition lines with surging runs and immense power; Coutinho will instead do the same with incision and daring in the pass.
Back in the Champions League – pending a qualifier – and with growing proof that Liverpool can compete with the best sides domestically, it’s clear just how big the season ahead might be for the Anfield club.
They might not end up with everyone who was on their wanted list, but steps forward have been taken, possibly more so than some of their Premier League rivals.
Coutinho will be central to it all, and Klopp’s response to the continued speculation around his future, and of reports emerging in Spain of an incoming bid from Barcelona, was short and to the point.
“I can well understand that teams are interested and why he is highly rated... but they can save their energy.”
Perhaps so should Premier League defenders before they face Liverpool. – The Independent