Having achieved the goal of a recall to the Brazil squad earlier this month, Philippe Coutinho wasted no time in setting himself another challenge on the international stage.

The Liverpool playmaker surprisingly missed out on a place in his country's selection for the World Cup on home soil during the summer.

But his quality-laden performances at club level were no longer ignored when the South Americans convened for two friendlies at the beginning of September.

Coutinho made substitute appearances against both Colombia and Ecuador in the United States, and has spoken of his delight with the chance to feature.

Yet his words are also filled with long-term ambitions and awareness that further challenges lay ahead to become a regular for Brazil.

"It's a dream for me personally to be back in the national squad, it's the dream of any Brazilian player, but the most difficult part comes next," he commented.

"What I've got to do now is stay in the squad until the next World Cup.

"I am desperate to do that, especially after watching what happened in the summer, but at the same time I do not want to look too far ahead.

"I am very happy to be back in the squad, I had a good week with the team and I am pleased to be back playing."