Philippe Coutinho won’t be going anywhere anytime soon. The 24-year-old Brazilian signed a new contract that runs until 2022 earlier this week, and it doesn't contain a release clause.

Since the sacking of Brendan Rodgers, Coutinho has taken on more of an attacking role for the club. He expressed his appreciation for the loyalty and support he has received from the club and its supporters.

“I signed this new contract to stay here for a few more years because it's a great honour for me," Coutinho said to the club's website.

"It gives me great happiness because I was welcomed here with open arms by everyone at the club and the supporters right from my first day. I am very thankful to this football club for everything."

Over the past two seasons, Coutinho has missed 12 matches due to injury. Coutinho is still trying to get back to form after sustaining an ankle injury against Bournemouth at the beginning of December.

When Klopp was introduced as manager in 2015, there were concerns over Coutinho’s ability to adapt to Klopp’s style of play. Those concerned were quickly squashed and the pair have developed quite the rapport.

"We have total belief in our project, but when a player of Phil's calibre and status commits for this length of time it shows that our faith is shared throughout the game. He knows he can fulfil his dreams and ambitions here at Liverpool. This is a big statement.” Klopp said about the signing.

Under Brendan Rodgers, Coutinho was primarily placed at attacking midfield but since Klopp has taken control, Coutinho plays mainly at left wing. The change has bore fruit.

In the 34 Premier League matches that Coutinho has played under Klopp since his arrival in October of 2015, Coutinho has scored 12 goals and added 10 assists.

Coutinho scored 17 goals in the 112 matches he played under Brendan Rodgers. In only 51 matches under Klopp, he has already matched the 17 goals.

Since joining the club, the Brazilian has averaged a goal and assist every 175 minutes. Before the signing, Barcelona had reportedly expressed an interest in trying to sign the budding star but Coutinho was not swayed.

“It is a club that I am very grateful to and this shows my happiness here. I will work much harder to repay the belief shown in me.” Coutinho said.

Liverpool are currently ten points behind Chelsea in the table and if they want any chance of making a run at top spot they need Coutinho to regain his pre-injury form.

[ad_pod id='Shoot-Xmas-Survey' align='left']

[ad_pod id='playwire' align='center']