Liverpool Send Jet to Retrieve Coutinho and Firmino
By Paul Drake
Once again Liverpool owners, Fenway Sports Group, send a jet to retrieve players: this time its Philippe Coutinho and Roberto Firmino from their stint with the Brazilian national team.
With the Merseyside derby this weekend, Liverpool wanted to ensure that there were no jet-lagged players dragging them down in training. Reds fans have seen FMG spring for a jet to return players more quickly, last tie it was retrieving Sadio Mane from Senegal at the Africa Cup of Nations
Thus, the report by Andy Hunter at the Guardian that Liverpool ownership sent a jet to pick up Coutinho and Firmino from South America on Tuesday. The report says that following Brazil’s match against Paraguay the players will board the jet and head back to Anfield. This will allow just two days’ rest for two very important players for Klopp
From International Break to Merseyside Derby
Both players enjoyed some success during their international break, Coutinho enjoyed his time with Neymar and Brazil looked great against Uruguay, winning 4-1. Also, Firmino played nicely in the absence Gabriel Jesus.
The Merseyside derby is no small match, and Liverpool’s cross-town rivals, Everton, are coming into the match in superb form.
Coutinho told Sam Williams, “The rivalry is like any derby – it’s intense. I’ve experienced these games both home and away and the intensity is equal with the fans. You’re always on TV, it’s one of the most difficult games and I don’t think this one will be any different.”
There is an intensity and importance to the derby, this is why Liverpool felt it important to have Coutinho and Firmino return as soon as possible. Upon arrival, they will be plugged straight into training to prepare for the Merseyside derby.
It will be vital for Liverpool to come away with 3 points on Saturday. The Reds need to keep pace and drop as few points as possible the remainder of the season.