Tipped to start for Brazil in their opening Copa America fixture against Peru, Philippe Coutinho is in danger of missing out on this important honour after picking up a thigh injury while training with the Selecao.
Liverpool may have endured a torrid Premier League season, but the 23-year old was in fine form throughout, asserting himself as the Reds leading man in the absence of the perpetually injured Daniel Sturridge. Whether or not he’d be drafted into the international set-up wasn’t even a question and he quickly repaid the faith of the Brazil boss when he bagged the opener — a curling shot from a tight angle — in their final warm-up match against Mexico last week.
While there is a good chance that Coutinho will miss out against Peru later tonight, there’s been no indication that the knock is that serious and, at this time anyway, he’s not in danger of missing any further matches. “All the players are available, there is no risk of cutting,” said Dunga when asked if he’ll make any adjustments to the squad heading into the tournament opener.
That, of course, is good news for Liverpool supporters everywhere. While there wouldn’t be too many Kopites that’d be all too bothered if their Brazilian magician ended up with some extra rest this summer, on the back of his season in the famous red shirt, you’d do well to find one that doesn’t wish the 23-year old all the best with the international squad this summer. If there’s one player that deserves to find some success, it’s him.
