Jurgen Klopp Praises Philippe Coutinho and Emre Can Attitude Amid Exit Rumours

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has praised the attitude of Anfield stars Philippe Coutinho and Emre Can amid speculation both men may be on the move in the near future. 

According to Sport (h/t Tom Coast of Sport Witness), Barcelona are in the "final straight" of agreeing a €150 million (£132 million) move for Coutinho as early as January. Meanwhile, according to Melissa Reddy of Goal, Juventus are confident of landing Can at the end of the campaign on a free transfer when his contract expires.

When asked about the two midfielders ahead of Friday's showdown with Arsenal in the Premier League, Klopp said he has no issue with either, per Simon Jones and Ian Ladyman of the Daily Mail.

"It's all about the behaviour of the players," he stated. "I work with them every day and neither Emre or Phil give me the impression that they are not interested in what we are doing. And that is all I care about until the moment we have to make a decision."

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While Liverpool would no doubt be better off without the speculation, it's not had too damaging an impact on their season. Coutinho, in particular, has thrived in 2017-18, per the club's official Twitter account:

The Brazil international, 25, deserves credit for showing that sort of application. In the summer, it was clear he wanted the move to Barcelona, as a transfer request was lodged. However, Liverpool rejected three bids for their No. 10.

Klopp's side have benefitted from that stubbornness, as Coutinho continues to excel for the Reds. While Mohamed Salah has been their star man this season, the playmaker's technical ability, creative talent and stunning goalscoring have been a joy to watch.

As noted by football writer Joel Rabinowitz, Coutinho is equally capable of hammering a shot in the top corner as he is beating a few players and finishing calmly:

Can started the campaign in excellent form for the Reds, particularly impressing in the 4-0 demolition of Arsenal and the 4-2 win over Hoffenheim. However, his form has taken a downturn lately.

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The Germany international's tendency to cling to possession for too long has slowed down some of Liverpool's play, while he is often caught out defensively, especially when utilised as the deepest man in midfield.

Philip Blundell of The Anfield Wrap suggested the 23-year-old needs to make better choices with the ball at his feet:

Despite speculation about a January exit, it would be a surprise if both Coutinho and Can were to move in midseason. Liverpool have some crucial games to come in the Premier League, UEFA Champions League and FA Cup.

While there's little Liverpool can do if Can opts not to extend his contract, it's expected Barcelona will make another major play for Coutinho at the end of the season. And if there's still a desire from the player to move on, the Merseyside outfit will have a decision to make.