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There were at least a few Liverpool players who deserved to be (and probably will be if you search long enough on Twitter) highlighted after the 4-0 win over Borussia Dortmund on Sunday. The debuts of Dejan Lovren and Javier Manquillo couldn't have gone any better, Raheem Sterling was a terror going forward, Glen Johnson had his best outing of the preseason, and Jordan Henderson was his typical active and industrious self in the midfield. Few were as impressive as Philippe Coutinho, though, as the Brazilian capped his wonderful preseason with a terrific individual display.
Operating in a familiar role advanced centrally, he was at the heart of nearly everything Liverpool did well going forward, flicking on for Daniel Sturridge's opener and constantly harassing Dortmund's midfield and defense with his close control and changes in pace. He finished the third well--and eradicated the trademark shots dragged wide from distance on the day--before combining in a brilliant flowing move that led to the final goal.
With Adam Lallana coming aboard there were questions about how his playing would be impacted, but if his performances over the past month are any indication, the answer is straightforward enough. It won't be. He's taken advantage of a full preseason to cement himself as one of Liverpool's most important and influential players as the season gets up and running, and one that's worth accommodating until form or fitness dictates otherwise.
Video via i7xLFC
