Klopp: Coutinho Lost Weight Before Stoke Match

Klopp: Coutinho Lost Weight Before Stoke Match

Jurgen Klopp has revealed that Brazilian playmaker, Philippe Coutinho lost 3 kilograms due to an illness before playing against Stoke.

The Brazil international and Firmino both came on at halftime and scored within three minutes, as Liverpool came from behind to win 2-1.

Klopp had previously stated Coutinho would not be travelling with the squad to Stoke, but praised his impact on the game when he was introduced.

Asked if the initial plan was to introduce Coutinho and Firmino later in the game than half-time, Klopp told Sky Sports: “That was the plan really, but of course you never know, Coutinho lost three kilograms in three days, maybe a few people would love to have this but it’s not good for a professional football player!

“Firmino after the last game had a bit of a groin problem and was a bit tired, maybe he could have started but we had to leave him out of training for three days, so it was his first session today!

“It was difficult to decide, but finally everything went well so I’m happy.”