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Brendan Rodgers Says Philippe Coutinho Has ‘Wonderful’ Technical Ability, Good Tactical Understanding

Brendan Rodgers believes Philippe Coutinho‘s impressive start to life at Anfield is only a taste of the things to come once he is fully fit.

The 20-year-old followed up a strike on his first start for the Reds against Swansea City two weeks ago by creating goals for Stewart Downing and Luis Suarez in Saturday’s 4-0 victory at Wigan Athletic.

Rodgers is thrilled with the manner in which Coutinho has started out at Anfield, but is adamant there is more to come.

“He’s adapted and fit in very well,” the boss told Liverpoolfc.com. “He’s a very talented young player who is a wonderful technician. Tactically, he participates in the game well and understands this way of working and playing. He created two goals with two assists against Wigan and was very impressive.

“He’s still getting his fitness — he’s up to 65/70 minutes now but as each day goes by he’s getting stronger. So far, he’s shown to be a very good signing for us.”

Meanwhile, Rodgers was eager to heap praise upon Suarez after his hat-trick at the DW Stadium.

The striker now has 28 goals in 38 appearances for Liverpool this season and currently tops the Barclays Premier League scorers chart.

“He was incredible — you run out of the superlatives for this guy,” said Rodgers. ”He’s a real pleasure to work with and you can see why the supporters love him — not because of his goals, but also the work rate and intensity he puts in.

“His first goal was a great finish. His second one, he’s hit the target, it got a little deflection and went in. The third goal was about great composure. It was a great run and pass from Glen Johnson and Luis has got time and slots it through the ‘keeper’s legs.

“Three goals at a difficult place to come is a great credit to Luis and the team.”

Photo via Liverpoolfc.com