Philippe Coutinho has withdrawn from the Brazil squad for the upcoming international break due to an unspecified injury.
Coutinho has been forced to withdraw from Dunga’s latest Brazil squad through injury, with the 23-year-old instead remaining on Merseyside throughout the international break.
That is according to James Pearce of the Liverpool Echo.
“[Coutinho] has informed the Brazilian Football Confederation that he’s unfit for international duty,” Pearce writes.
“Kaka, who now plies his trade for Orlando City in Major Leaguer Soccer in America, has been called up as Coutinho’s replacement in Dunga’s squad.
“It is unclear exactly what Coutinho has done and whether he’s a doubt for Liverpool’s next game away to Tottenham on October 17.”
Coutinho played the full 90 minutes during Sunday’s 1-1 Merseyside derby draw with Everton at Goodison Park.
While the midfielder was undoubtedly subdued throughout, he showed no sign of injury.
Though there is no indication of how long Coutinho will be on the sidelines, the No. 10 will join Christian Benteke, Roberto Firmino, Dejan Lovren and Jon Flanagan in the treatment room.
This withdrawal comes at a crucial juncture for Liverpool, following Brendan Rodgers’ sacking on Sunday evening.
Coutinho will no doubt be a key player for Rodgers’ successor, and Liverpool will be hoping that his injury does not hamper his transition into life under a new manager.
On the other hand, in remaining at Melwood for the international break Coutinho could be given an advantage.
Rodgers’ replacement is likely to be appointed in the coming days, utilising this period to initiate a vital bedding-in process—and Coutinho’s presence will be invaluable.
Fan Comments