Philippe Coutinho ‘can emulate Luis Suárez at Liverpool’

Jose Enrique has backed Brazilian youngster Philippe Coutinho to emulate Luis Suárez at Liverpool.

The 20-year-old has enjoyed a positive start to his Reds career, scoring two goals and making three assists in the Premier League, after joining in a £8.5m deal from Inter Milan in the January transfer window.

Coutinho’s fellow South American Suárez has also been in prolific form, netting 22 top-flight goals this term and building on a promising first full season in the Premier League.

The Brazil international’s effortless transition from Serie A to the physically-demanding Premier League has surprised some, but Enrique believes Coutinho can become a key player for Brendan Rodgers’ side.

“Luis had a really good year after just six months here before,” Enrique told Liverpool Daily Post.

“Now you can see the real Luis, with how many goals he scores.

“With Coutinho, it’s going to happen the same I think.

“You can see how well he is doing but I think he’s going to improve a lot more – if he improves after what he has been doing already he is going to be a top player for us.

“He’s a really calm player; he doesn’t talk much but he’s always joking. I really like him.”

Coutinho has shown signs of a blossoming understanding with Suárez in recent Premier League games, but Enrique says it is easy to forge a partnership with players of the Uruguayan’s quality.

“It’s easy to play with good players. Everyone says sometimes me and Luis link well – I think Luis is a
top player, it’s easy to link well with him,” he added.

“With Coutinho, it’s the same thing. He’s a very good player, you can see his amazing talent and he’s still really young.”