Coutinho: Firmino can make difference

Posted Sunday, June 28, 2015 by Foxsports.com

Philippe Coutinho has revealed his excitement at linking up with new Liverpool signing Firmino and has backed his Brazil team-mate to help the Reds challenge for trophies.

The former Hoffenheim forward became the Anfield club's fifth signing of the summer on Wednesday and Coutinho feels that the acquisition of his fellow Brazilian is something for the supporters to be excited about.

"I think it is great news," he told the club's website. "Firmino is a great player and obviously I know him from the Brazilian national team. He is a great character and person.

"He is strong physically, he is fast, agile, very skilful on the ball and he scores a lot of goals - he is a great forward. I am sure he will be of great help to us next season.

"After hearing the news, I said to him 'welcome to Liverpool' and I have told him that he will be coming into a club that is like a family - I made sure to tell him that.

"I have also wished him a great and very successful first season at Liverpool."

With Firmino added to the ranks along with James Milner, Danny Ings, Adam Bogdan and Joe Gomez already this summer, the former Inter Milan man expects the reinforcements to boost Liverpool's pursuit of silverware.

"I'm very much looking forward to playing and starting the new season alongside Firmino at Liverpool. I am looking forward to not only playing for Liverpool again, but trying to help us get into a position to win trophies," the Brazilian added.

"As I said, I am very happy he has signed for Liverpool - but not only him, all of the other signings we've made recently as well. I'm sure all of these new players are coming in to make our team even stronger for the new season.

"I can't wait to start the Premier League season. I am very hopeful things will go well for us on the pitch this season."