Coutinho: Angry? No, trying to improve
Philippe Coutinho's array of attacking abilities have been showcased in full in recent weeks, but it's fair to say Liverpool fans have seen a different side to his game – and it's all due to assiduous work on the Melwood training pitches.
Courtesy of Daniel Sturridge, the Brazilian has earned the nickname 'The Magician' this season, and he lived up to his moniker as he proved instrumental in the Reds sweeping aside Everton and Arsenal at Anfield.
But in addition to producing 'wow moments' against the Blues and the Gunners from a central role, Coutinho operated diligently in midfield, harrying, harassing and helping win possession back for the team.
It was an indication that the effort and determination to improve the defensive side of his game was paying dividends for the 21-year-old.
So much so, in fact, some supporters pointed out on social media networks that Coutinho was taking to the field almost angry.
"I think it's just an impression," the man himself says at Melwood with a smile. "I always do my best and help my teammates when I'm on the pitch.
"I've been trying to improve intensity, marking and defence forms in training. I believe this is helpful at matches as we may take the ball from the opposition and it's easier to attack when we have more blank spaces. I've been trying to improve in this aspect.
"I've been trying to do this in training as well as in games. I believe this is a positive aspect at which I've been improving."
That's not to say Coutinho's contributions in an offensive capacity have taken a back seat. On the contrary, in fact.
His signature move - the expertly-executed through ball - helped carve out goals for Sturridge against both Everton and Arsenal, while the No.10 also netted a crucial equaliser en route to a last-gasp 3-2 win at Fulham.
So, is Coutinho feeling at the peak of his seemingly unlimited powers?
"It's hard to say that but I'm always working to be in good form for matches," he replies. "The team have been performing very well recently and of course all players do well as a consequence because we encourage and help each other.
"I didn't play so well in some games but I've had the chance to improve and I'm looking forward to improving even more going forward."
Coutinho's strike at Craven Cottage - a left-foot curler from 20 yards - was his third goal of the season so far.
"It had been a while since I had scored my last goal," he ponders. "Sure it's good to score; however, the most important thing is that we win as a team.
"We've been playing well recently and I hope we can keep this pace."