Henderson: Coutinho contract is big boost for Liverpool

Liverpool’s season has hit the skids with only one win in January but Philippe Coutinho signing a new contract proves the club is destined for greatness – according to Jordan Henderson.

Jurgen Klopp’s side were knocked out of the FA Cup at the weekend by Championship side Wolves in a shock defeat at Anfield to compound a miserable month that also saw them exit the EFL Cup at the semi-final stage.

But club captain Henderson is confident there is plenty left for the Reds to fight for – and the re-signing of Brazilian playmaker Coutinho is a much-needed shot in the arm.

“I was reading some things Phil Coutinho had to say about committing his future to this club with a new long-term contract,” said Henderson.

“Phil is world-class in every sense: ability, attitude, character, he’s the full package. Last week he made a big statement by saying he belongs at Liverpool.

(Photo by James Baylis – AMA/Getty Images)

“I’ve shared a dressing room with this player for a decent amount of time now and I can tell you he is as ambitious as any footballer I’ve ever met or worked with.

“Phil wants to win and win major titles. The fact he has committed to here is the biggest message you can get that we are in a positive situation.

“Phil is one of our ‘quiet’ leaders; someone who we, as players, admire for his actions rather than big chest-thumping speeches. But when he does speak it’s worth listening to.

“He spoke about it being a bad week, but that we have to look beyond it; that he believes we will win titles because our manager is a winner.

“When he said that he spoke for all of us in the dressing room. We know we’re in a good way and have made real progress this season. We can see it and feel it.”