Brazilian attacking midfielder Philippe Coutinho may make his Aston Villa debut on Saturday against Manchester United, in Birmingham, in the 21st round of the Premier League. And coach Steven Gerrard had announced this possibility, after the team was eliminated in his first appearance in the FA Cup, already in the third stage, at the hands of United himself with a 1-0 defeat at Old Trafford in Manchester.
Philip Coutinho He traveled from Barcelona to France, where he underwent a medical examination pending the release of the work permit required by the UK government.
“On Wednesday we will see his condition and decide if he is fit to play. But yes, I hope he is available,” Gerrard said.
The Brazilian was hired Aston Villa On loan from Barcelona until the end of the season. The deal marks Philippe Coutinho’s return to English football, where he shone for Liverpool.
The player tested positive for covid-19 on December 30 and spent the end of the year isolated. During this period, he has kept his form at home and is fit to play at the moment. His last official match was on December 12 against Osasuna, for the Spanish championship. At Aston Villa, the Brazilian should get extra minutes on the field.
“He is a player I have enjoyed playing with before and I know the rest of the team here at Aston Villa will benefit from his quality and experience. His presence will be invaluable due to injuries and the Africa Cup of Nations being diminished. Our offensive options,” Gerrard commented.
