Thompson hails ‘thrilling’ Liverpool ace Coutinho

Liverpool playmaker Philippe Coutinho reportedly has Barcelona chasing his signature, and club legend Phil Thompson believes he is so good he could have starred for the all-conquering Reds sides of the 1980s.

Coutinho’s influence at Anfield has steadily grown since he arrived at the club in 2013 – and he is now one of the best attacking midfielders in the Premier League.

His 14 goals in the 2016/17 season helped the Reds secure Champions League football for just the second time in seven years – but his impressive displays have attracted interest from elsewhere.

Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt – AMA/Getty Images

Barcelona successfully prised Luis Suarez away from Liverpool three years ago, and reports suggest they are hoping to do the same with Coutinho this year.

And Thompson heaped praise on the 24-year-old, and is adamant he could have played for the Reds when they were the dominant force in English football.

“When you’re blessed with the ability that he has – you saw the likes of [Kenny] Dalglish drop off to make the No.10 role his own – Philippe Coutinho is one of those players that can thrill you,” said the ex-defender.

“He can get you out of your seat and he can score those goals you’ll remember. Philippe does it for fun. He whips them in with his right foot, whether it’s the near post or using the far post.

“He would have to be the one I think could have excited in our day.”