Coutinho: I've found a family at Liverpool
Philippe Coutinho believes the family feel of Liverpool has allowed him to blossom and play with a confidence in his own outstanding ability.
The playmaker was in exceptional form throughout the Reds' pre-season programme and was rewarded for his endeavours with a call-up to the Brazilian national team this week, for two friendlies in the United States in September.
The news was met with delight from both teammates and fans alike, who feel it is a just decision for Coutinho - and the man himself cites the close-knit nature of the club as a major factor in allowing him to perform with a self-assurance in his talents.
"I've improved my confidence quite a bit," the 22-year-old said in an interview with Liverpoolfc.com. "It is very important, as a player can only give his best when he has confidence in himself. Playing consecutive games with the first team [when I first arrived] was also helpful.
"I found a family when I first arrived here. This club really is like a family and this helped me feel very comfortable when I first came to Liverpool.
"Playing alongside great players such as our captain, Steven Gerrard, and seeing how simple, humble and hard-working people they are also helped me learn and feel comfortable here."
Coutinho's call-up is part of new coach Dunga's plans to revive the Brazilian national team following their World Cup disappointment in the summer.
Many had tipped the Liverpool No.10 to be given the nod to represent his country at the tournament, but it wasn't to be.
"In all honesty I did not have many hopes of being called up for this World Cup as I hadn't been named in the squads prior to the tournament," he reflected a few days before he discovered he was back in the Brazil fold.
"I tried not to raise my expectations because I knew it would be difficult to happen.
"One of my dreams was - and still is - to play at a World Cup. But in the end I was there supporting Brazil and now I'll try to work harder at Liverpool to get my chance with the Brazilian national team."
That hard work has ultimately paid off following Tuesday's news of his call-up for friendlies against Colombia and Ecuador in Miami and New Jersey.
Still, Coutinho is aware there's still plenty of graft ahead on the training pitches as he aims to hone his talents.
"I'm constantly trying to grow and show improvement," he concluded. "It's important to frequently show something new as there are so many players in constant competition in football."