Liverpool August squad rankings: Sturridge falls, Mane rises
By Tom Bogert
1. Philippe Coutinho (no change)
The preseason number one has retained his place atop Liverpool’s power rankings. He showed the world his match winning capabilities when he helped dismantle Arsenal with two goals en route to a four spot being hung on Arsene Wenger’s side.
Liverpool may not have had a chance to be in that game if not for Coutinho’s excellence. As over simplified as it may be, goals change games. Arsenal were ahead on the stroke of halftime. Liverpool had their moments, but it wasn’t reflected in the scoreline.
An innocuous foul was given for Klopp’s men about 30 yards away from goal, and Coutinho smashed it home. He gave his side the momentum going into halftime and they absolutely steamrolled Arsenal the opening 15 minutes of the second half, when Coutinho grabbed his second of the day.
If not for the free kick, the Reds may not have had the opportunity to pick up all three points on the day. Games turn on moments, and Coutinho’s best moment is just as good as any player in the world.
Why he’s not in the conversation for one of the top few players in the Premier League, though, is his consistency. He’s still working at it. He, like everyone else wearing the Liverbird on their chest, had an off day against Burnley. It was rife with wayward attempts from 25 yards.
Against Tottenham he played well, though missed an opportunity to score after four minutes. A finish he probably finishes in training nine times out of ten. He’s working at it, but he’s got the potential to jump to bona fide world class status this season.