Klavan praises returning Coutinho and ‘amazing’ Mignolet

Ragnar Klavan has hailed Simon Mignolet’s performances for Liverpool – and has given his thoughts on the return of Philippe Coutinho to the squad.

Coutinho was given 30 minutes at Old Trafford, having featured for a similar amount of time against Southampton having returned from a near seven-week absence with ankle ligament damage.

He almost made an immediate impact, setting up compatriot Roberto Firmino for a chance which David de Gea saved, and the Brazil international’s influence on the side is going to be tested over the next few months.

“You could see straight away when he came on, with a couple of touches he created some really good opportunities,” said Klavan.

“His quality is massive and everybody is delighted he is back on the field and he can help us.”

Klavan also had praise for goalkeeper Simon Mignolet, whose performances have improved since returning after Loris Karius was dropped.

The Belgium international produced three good saves at Old Trafford with one from Zlatan Ibrahimovic’s low free-kick described by United manager Jose Mourinho as “amazing”.

Klavan tended to agree with the Red Devils boss.

“He has been amazing for us,” said the centre-back, who is covering for a fit-again Joel Matip who is still awaiting confirmation from FIFA he is eligible to play having refused a Cameroon call-up for the African Nations Cup as he retired from international football in September 2015.

“He is always there for us when needed and he’s doing a brilliant job.”