The Brazilian will miss much of Liverpool’s festive fixtures after picking up an injury in the 2-0 win over Sunderland last month. Coutinho has been ruled out for a number of games this month including the Merseyside derby against Everton. Coutinho said he has set his sights on making his return against Manchester City.
But asked if Coutinho could return for the Anfield clash with Manchester City on New Year’s Eve, Klopp said:
“It would be cool. He is improving a lot.”
Liverpool have endured a mixed run of results since Coutinho’s injury, dropping points to Bournemouth and West Ham before Wednesday’s 3-0 win at Middlesbrough.
But Klopp is wary of pushing Coutinho to come back before he is ready.
“He is off his crutches since the West Ham game, when we left the stadium he was walking in front without them,” Klopp added.
“We will have to see. No idea at the moment. I never rush a player back. I’m the most patient person in Liverpool. I always wait for someone. I can’t rush it” added the German.
A win over local rivals at Goodison Park on Monday would push Liverpool back into second place closing the gap on leaders Chelsea to six points.
The 24-year-old is still recovering from an ankle injury but his Liverpool side has been able to cope so far without their talisman despite the mixed bunch of results. Liverpool will be looking for their inspirational attacker to get back as soon as possible as they look to push for the title
Coutinho was spotted earlier this week saying, “The rehab is going really well. I can now walk without crutches and I am working well with the medical team. So I’m pleased with how I am recovering”