Don’t turn your back Coutinho

crucial Champions League play-off with Hoffenheim without the injured Brazilian midfielder, who has submitted a transfer request.

But Henderson says that won’t affect the Reds tonight – or stop the Kop skipper from trying to talk round his team-mate.

Henderson said: “It’s a difficult situation for Phil and whatever I say won’t help matters...but we want Phil to stay because he’s a world-class player.

“Ask anybody in the team, they want him to stay. As players, when windows are open, things like this happen. Players come and go. You’ve got to accept things like this and focus on what’s important. I don’t think I can influence the situation.. that’s down to Phil and the club.

“But I’m good friends with Phil and I have a lot of respect for him. Of course I’m going to talk to him but those conversations will remain private.”

Henderson is more concerned by what is a daunting clash against a tough Hoffenheim side for a place in the Champions League proper.

He last night insisted nothing will knock his teammates out of their stride, not even Barcelona’s pursuit of their best player.

“The focus won’t be affected at all. The most important thing is tomorrow,” he stated.

“For us the biggest focus is Hoffenheim. We’ll stay together and make sure we take a good result back. We’ve got to take the opportunity.”

PHIL FAN Henderson says Coutinho is world class

UNHAPPY Coutinho’s had his head turned by Barca