Philippe Coutinho, Aston Villa, Villans, Villa Park, Premier League
Journalist Ashley Preece has bemoaned Philippe Coutinho’s dip in form for Aston Villa, claiming that a lack of confidence has played a part in the 30-year-old’s struggles.
The Lowdown: Coutinho off the boil
The Brazilian arrived at Villa Park in January as a hugely exciting loan signing and he made a strong start to life in the Midlands, scoring four goals and chipping in with three assists in his first eight matches.
This season has been a very different story, though, with no goals or assists coming his way in seven appearances in the Premier League, with his all-round influence lacking. Indeed, his WhoScored rating has plummeted from 6.96 in the league last term to 6.35 so far in the current campaign.
Coutinho could start away to Leeds United on Sunday afternoon in what is a crucial game for an under-fire Steven Gerrard, but he will need to show a significant improvement on recent form if he is to have a match-winning influence at Elland Road.
The Latest: Preece concerned by Coutinho’s form
Speaking to GiveMeSport, Preece rued the 30-year-old’s current form and believes that the Brazilian is suffering from a lack of confidence. The reporter stated:
“I think his confidence has taken a hit. He burst on the scene at Villa Park in January and despite only being half fit, he really showed the Coutinho of old.
“Some of the goals and assists were fantastic, and then to sign a player of his calibre on a permanent for just £17m was a really great deal, but we haven’t seen it this season.”
The Verdict: Gerrard needs help from ex-teammate
Coutinho often struggled badly at Barcelona and his current performances for Villa arguably explain why, with a lack of consistency on show from the 30-year-old.
Gerrard very much needs his former Liverpool team-mate to hit top gear again, with the Brazil international someone who can lift everyone around him when at his best, having been hailed as ‘unbelievable’ by compatriot Roberto Firmino in the past.
Should Villa move for Conor Gallagher?
Yes
No
The concern is that Coutinho’s form plummeted as soon as his temporary move to Villa was made permanent, and it would be a crying shame if he fails to replicate his early performances at the club and doesn’t give his absolute all for the cause now that he has earned that full-time contract in the Midlands.
About the Author
