Coutinho: Augsburg is Liverpool’s focus, not Wembley

Ian Watson
Philippe Coutinho: Not aware of any interest

Philippe Coutinho: Not aware of any interest

Philippe Coutinho insists Liverpool are only focused on the “very important” Europa League clash with Augsburg on Thursday despite the Capital One Cup final looming this weekend.

The Reds midfielder is desperate to lift a trophy with the Anfield side, with Sunday’s Wembley clash with Manchester City offering the most immediate opportunity to achieve that ambition.

But before they head to north London, Jurgen Klopp’s men must safely negotiate their Europa League second-leg clash with Augsburg, with the tie delicately poised after a goalless draw in Germany last week.

Coutinho says the Europa League is priority for now and insists the side will not be distracted by the upcoming trip to Wembley.

“Winning a trophy with Liverpool would mean a lot to me,” Coutinho said.

“It is a very important game but we have to think about Augsburg first and then the final.

“We have a good chance to win the trophy and we have to give everything to take this opportunity. Everyone knows it is very important.”

The Brazilian is relieved to be playing again after a five-week spell on the sidelines with a hamstring injury.

“I am happy because I am back playing,” he said.

“It was a bad time for me when I was out of the squad with injury but I am happy now.”