Pundit hits out at Philippe Coutinho after what he’s seen at Aston Villa
Noel Whelan has claimed Philippe Coutinho has lost “grit, determination, and desire” since joining Aston Villa permanently.
The former Leeds striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, suggested the 30-year-old isn’t putting in the “work rate” for Steven Gerrard at present.
Coutinho failed to beat Illan Meslier with any of his four attempts, lost possession 14 times, and failed to find an Aston Villa player with any of his three crosses during the 0-0 draw against Leeds United (2 October, as per Sofascore).
The Brazil international has failed to score or assist in any of his nine appearances for the Midlands giants this season.
Aston Villa completed the permanent signing of Coutinho for a reported £17million in the summer window after a successful loan spell last season.
Whelan suggested fellow midfielder Emiliano Buendia would be a much more effective option for Gerrard.
He told Football Insider’s Ewan Kingsbury: “Coutinho has not hit the heights he did when he first came in.
“It seems like he’s just lost that bit of grit, determination, and desire. He’s not putting in that work rate or being efficient on the ball.
“He got into some decent positions against Leeds but a man of his quality – you’re expecting better.
“I thought he was going to come into his own when Leeds went down to 10 men and exploit the space, but he didn’t.
“It was a lacklustre performance from Aston Villa.
“Buendia did more in the short time he was on than Coutinho did in the full game.”
In other news, pundit claims Aston Villa are “not happy” with Steven Gerrard after source’s reveal.