Philippe Coutinho Injury Update: Liverpool Star Targeting Manchester City Return

Liverpool talisman Philippe Coutinho may yet feature again in 2016 after revealing he's targeting a return to action in time for the New Year's Eve clash against Manchester City. 

The Reds host the Citizens in a Premier League battle that could have a huge bearing on this year's title race. Regarding the game, Coutinho told David Lynch of the official Liverpool website:

"

This is still my hope - to return for this game. The rehab is going really well. I can now walk without crutches and I am working well with the medical team. So I'm pleased with how I am recovering.

Straight after the game, when I first saw the pictures and videos of my injury, I was a little scared. But after the scans, of course it was bad, but not as bad as it could have been. I am happy, as it could have been a lot worse.

"

Coutinho suffered an ankle injury in last month's 2-0 victory over Sunderland, and it's a sign of just how heavily the team has come to rely on their star that Liverpool have yet to win a league fixture since.

The Brazilian went on to voice his frustration at being unable to help the team during last Sunday's 4-3 defeat at Bournemouth or this Sunday's 2-2 draw at home to West Ham United. 

"Obviously I have been very frustrated, because like any player who is injured, it is tough to watch rather than play and help the team," he said. "The last game was a draw and not the result we wanted, but the team still has great quality and I am certain in the next game we will come back stronger."

Coutinho was recently crowned Men's Player of the Year at the Football Supporters' Federation Awards 2016 after driving the Merseysiders to the finals of both the League Cup and the Europa League. Manager Jurgen Klopp heaped praise on his playmaker, per Anfield HQ:

Fans will be pleased to hear their main puppeteer may be back in action earlier than was initially anticipated, particularly since Senegal's Sadio Mane will depart for the Africa Cup of Nations in January.

However, Liverpool will also be wary of rushing Coutinho back quicker than recommended, lest they sacrifice long-term fitness for a short-term impact against the Citizens on December 31.