Southampton manager Mauricio Pochettino believes that Liverpool’s Philippe Coutinho has similar qualities to fellow South Americans Ronaldinho and Lionel Messi.
The 20-year-old moved to Anfield for £8.5 million from Inter in January and has enjoyed a productive start to his Premier League career, scoring once and notching two assists in four games.
Pochettino worked with Coutinho during a loan spell at Espanyol last season and believes the Brazilian has “a special magic in his feet”.
He said: “Philippe is a Brazilian player and, as it happens with most Brazilians, he has a special magic in his feet.
“Aside from the magic that he has, he also has an amazing work rate and that makes us doubt whether he fits the mould of a typical Brazilian player or a European one because his work ethic is outstanding.
“What is important about him is he is a good lad, a good kid – a great, humble person. I do think Coutinho has that same quality that Ronaldinho and Messi have, but he has much to prove yet.
“What is really clear to me is that Coutinho is a really responsible player – really dedicated and responsible to his own players.”
The Saints were heavily linked with the young midfielder, as well as Liverpool, but the Argentine coach suggested that the failed move should be consigned to history.
Pochettino added: “What has happened in the past, happened in the past. We can’t change it or do anything about it. Actually, talking about it is not going to do anything positive either.”
Source: Goal.com
