Coutinho: I hope Chelsea double signals return to top form

The Brazil playmaker struck two goals at Stamford Bridge to help the Reds to an emphatic 3-1 victory over Jose Mourinho’s side and secure Jürgen Klopp’s first Barclays Premier League win as manager.

Coutinho admits he felt his form wasn’t at its usually exceptional high level in the matches leading up to the Chelsea clash and was elated to have played such a significant part in Saturday’s success.

He told Liverpoolfc.com: “For me, it was great. I wasn’t playing so well and hadn’t scored for a while, so I was glad to score again and help the team.

“I hope [it can be a turning point for me], I hope so. Sometimes when you play things don’t always go well, but I always work hard.

“I’m always looking to improve and I hope from now on I’ll continue improving, not only me, but the team, which is the most important thing.”

Eagle-eyed Liverpool fans will have noticed Coutinho’s opening goal at Stamford Bridge – the crucial equaliser on the stroke of half-time – was netted with his left foot.

It was followed by a unique celebration as the 23-year-old placed the match ball under his shirt and placed his thumb in his mouth in reference to his impending fatherhood.

“Ah, yes, that was for my daughter - my wife is pregnant and we’re expecting a little girl,” revealed Coutinho.

“I’ve been working quite hard, on all aspects of my game. As I said, I haven’t been playing well, it wasn’t a good phase for me, but I always concentrate on working hard.

“There are many things to work on before the next game, and I hope it continues.

“As for my left foot, I’ve been working on it in training and it came off…thank God!”

Liverpool returned from London via train on Saturday evening before many members of the squad reunited for a Halloween party that night (“I went as Chucky,” Coutinho smiles).

After three consecutive draws in the league, the No.10 acknowledges it was vital the Reds got back on the winning track, but was eager to stress there’s still plenty of work to be done.

“I think everyone’s happy with the result, said Coutinho. “We know the work is just beginning and we have to keep it up, but I think we’re on the right track.

“Of course, we’ve had a run without any wins, and everyone was focused on winning, which was important for us.

“Three points and against that opposition, it’s given a boost to our confidence and I hope we can now focus on each game and be successful.

“It’s a very important win, but at the same time we have to take the positives and negatives so we can improve and start thinking about the next game.

“We can’t spend too much time thinking about this one, we have an important game during the week, and I hope we can perform well again and win.”