Coutinho outlines Villa plan; adds voice to ‘top’ player’s England calls

Philippe Coutinho has heaped praise on Aston Villa team-mate Jacob Ramsey and hopes to help him take his game to the next level.

Coutinho, 29, has been in sensational form since moving to Villa Park on a six-month loan deal. The Brazil international has bagged two goals from three top-flight outings. He has also registered two assists – both for Ramsey.

The 20-year-old midfielder has dovetailed well with his South American colleague. Ramsey has scored five goals from 20 league outings in 2021-2022, with the youngster netting two last time out.

That was in the thrilling 3-3 draw with Leeds United while he also notched in the 2-2 draw with Manchester United. Coutinho is witnessing his development up close and personal.

The former Liverpool forward hopes he can aid his fellow Villan who, he feels, is already a force to be reckoned with.

“He’s a top player,” told Sky Sports, per 90min. “He’s very young and he’s playing really well. I really enjoy playing with him and with all my team-mates. If I can help him, I will try to do my best. For sure, he has a great future.

“We didn’t speak too much yet. I just arrived here, my English has to improve but on the pitch, I’m trying to connect with all my team-mates and I hope I can help my team here.”

Ramsey England talk growing

Ramsey has helped Villa up to 11th place in the top-flight standings. They look a different outfit under Steven Gerrard after the former England skipper replaced Dean Smith at the helm.

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There is still a long way to go before they are challenging for honours. But the manager has recruited well and pushing his side in the right direction.

Ramsey is clearly part of the long-term future at Villa Park. Gerrard has already acknowledged his England potential and insists it is now inevitable that Gareth Southgate will come calling.

“I know the level of the England players, I’ve been around it, and have enough experience to know it’s only a matter of time but let’s all be sensible and keep calm about it,” he said.

“I want him to make his own headlines with his football. He is a top talent, I’m loving every moment of working with him.

“He is getting stronger with each game because we’re giving him the platform to express himself. He is in a wonderful place.”

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