Aston Villa manager Steven Gerrard has labelled Philippe Coutinho’ world-class’ amid ever-growing murmurs of a potential January move. Coutinho reunite with Gerrard at Villa Park this month but is the subject of mass interest from Premier League clubs.
Speaking ahead of Villa’s FA Cup Third Round trip to Manchester United on Monday, Gerrard addressed the Coutinho speculation by heaping praise on his ability.
He told reporters: “He [Coutinho] is a wonderful footballer. To share a dressing room and a pitch with Coutinho was an absolute pleasure.
“He was on a level that very few footballers are on with his imagination and creativity. His highlight reels are there for all to see. The name speaks for itself. I do appreciate his name is out there, and he is linked to Aston Villa.
“But he is also linked to five-six other clubs in this league, and I am sure there would be a long list of foreign clubs that are linked with Philippe’s services as well.
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“You are talking about a world-class individual and player. I appreciate and respect the speculation, but I can’t give anything further than that.
“I wouldn’t like that disrespect coming this way in terms of Aston Villa. What I won’t do here or anywhere else is speak about players that belong to other clubs. That is not fair or respectful.
“I appreciate and respect the speculation. We are at that time of the season where a lot of names get bandied around, but, unfortunately, you won’t see me comment on any speculation.”
According to BirminghamLive, a deal to bring Coutinho to the Midlands in an audacious move is ‘progressing fast’.
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