The Brazilian playmaker proved he is a top player with two goals in Saturday’s 3-1 win against the Premier League champions, according to his teammate
Philippe Coutinho proven his ability to dictate big games with two goals in Liverpool’s 3-1 Premier League win at champions Chelsea on Saturday, according to Anfield teammate Martin Skrtel.
Coutinho, 22, ended a wait of 710 minutes for a Premier League goal when he curled home the equaliser at the end of the first half at Stamford Bridge after Ramires’ early opener for Chelsea.
The Brazil international struck a second on 74 minutes before Christian Benteke wrapped up Jurgen Klopp’s first Premier League victory in charge of Liverpool, with Coutinho speaking of his relief at finding the net after the game.
Reds defender Skrtel praised the attacking midfielder’s return to form, and says Coutinho’s display in such a high-profile match proves he has the temperament to decide matches at the top level for Klopp.
“The big players show their quality in the games you need them,” he told The Liverpool Echo. “Maybe Philippe didn’t play quite as well in the last few games but today he showed his quality and how important he is for this team.
“We didn’t start well, we knew that. But I think after that 10 minutes we started to play the game we wanted to and the [equalising] goal we scored was a massive help for us.
“In the second half we dominated, scored two goals, and won the game. The performance as a team was outstanding and every single player on the pitch or on the bench, did everything for the win today.
“That’s why we are very happy. It feels great. To beat Chelsea at Stamford Bridge is always something special and especially after the performance we showed today.
“I think second half we absolutely dominated and deserved the three points.”
Coutinho said following the win: “I am so happy to score those goals. It had been a long time since I last scored. I haven’t been playing so well but I knew I just had to keep working and things would change for me. That’s what I did.
“I kept going and I knew that good things would come. Hopefully I can go on to score many more goals.”