Philippe Coutinho Injury: Updates on Liverpool Star's Status and Return

Liverpool's Brazilian wizard Philippe Coutinho limped off with a hamstring injury during the Reds' Nov. 21 win over Manchester City. However, he is to ready to return to competitive action.

Continue for updates.

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Coutinho Makes Substitute Appearance vs. Sion

Thursday, Dec. 10

Coutinho entered the Europa League fixture against the Swiss side with 30 minutes remaining.

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Klopp Comments on Coutinho's Recovery

Friday, Dec. 4

"We were too optimistic [about Coutinho's return date]," said Reds boss Jurgen Klopp prior to Liverpool's loss at Newcastle, via James Pearce of the Liverpool Echo. "Sometimes [it] happens like this. He can train nearly normally but doesn't feel totally comfortable."

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Coutinho the Brains of Klopp's Machine

The Brazilian schemer has developed into one of the Anfield club's primary talents since his bargain £8.5 million move from Inter Milan in January 2013.

After the departures of Steven Gerrard and Luis Suarez in the last two summers, Coutinho has stepped up as the team's central creative force, and he appears to be developing a fine understanding with compatriot Roberto Firmino.

Coutinho had five goals and three assists in 15 league and European appearances this term before his return, according to WhoScored.com, and he netted at City moments before his injury.

In his absence, Klopp relied on Firmino to play a more withdrawn role, but he'll be glad to have the pair back together.