Many Liverpool fans (ourselves included, if we’re being honest) were irate at Jurgen Klopp last night for taking Coutinho off on the hour mark – but it turns out the manager had little choice.
The Brazilian, who bagged in the first 45, threw up in dressing room at half-time and indicated to the bench he still felt sick before being subbed.
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(Video) Coutinho scores another beauty in front of Anfield Road End
Melissa Reddy of Goal tweeted Klopp’s statements on the matter:
Klopp on Coutinho: “We had to change Phil because he felt sick at half-time. He vomited. He said he feels better now – that’s good.”#LFC
— Melissa Reddy (@MelissaReddy_) April 5, 2017
Klopp on Coutinho: “It was clear when he gave the sign then we had to change. It’s no joy when you have to take off the best player”#LFC
— Melissa Reddy (@MelissaReddy_) April 5, 2017
Klopp decided to bring on Joel Matip for the final half hour, which changed our shape – and with it – our mentality.
We were dominating the Cherries and 2-1 up upon Phil’s departure, but an 87th minute equaliser broke our hearts and severely damaged our chances of a top four finish.
We’ve got Stoke and West Brom up next; the type of fixture which fills us with dread.
Hopefully Coutinho feels better by the weekend and can play 90 minutes for the first time in a while. We badly need him to.