Zico: Coutinho call-up no surprise
Tuesday's news of Philippe Coutinho's call-up to the Brazil national team was greeted with delight by Liverpool fans and teammates alike after his sparkling performances over the last few months.
Back in his homeland, his selection in Dunga's squad to face Colombia and Ecuador in September has come as no surprise to Brazil legend Zico who, in an exclusive interview with LFCTV GO earlier this summer, predicted it wouldn't be long before the 22-year-old won further recognition at international level.
"Coutinho is a very skilled and tactical player," explained Zico.
"He has already played in a number of countries, which must have been a good learning experience for him as he has achieved a higher level of confidence now at Liverpool.
"This confidence has probably come from the manager and his teammates, and is something our players need when playing abroad.
"He's improved his performances as a result and you can see [last season] he was being more audacious in trying new moves and taking higher risks.
"For me, that development was important for Liverpool to have the attacking quality we saw last season.
"You have to be a regular performer to win a place with the national team, not just play well in a single season.
"He's been improving and is on the right track. I have no doubts he will be called up soon if he starts this season as well as he finished the last."
Zico also explained how Liverpool's style and blistering football won his support last season.
He said: "I truly supported Liverpool last season. The football they were playing was beautiful, a joy to watch.
"I follow English football a lot and the Premier League is my favourite tournament to watch. The teams play great football and have great players."
LFCTV GO subscribers can see what else the legendary Brazilian had to say on Coutinho, Steven Gerrard and Brendan Rodgers now. If you're not signed up already visit www.liverpoolfc.com/video and get 12 months for the price of 10.