We Understood Coutinho Saga - Wijnaldum

Georginio Wijnaldum has said that Liverpool players understood Philippe Coutinho's desire to move to Barcelona, and there were no problems when he returned to the squad.

Coutinho missed Liverpool's first six matches of the season as he attempted to force through a move to Barca in the summer transfer window.

And Wijnaldum told the Liverpool Echo: "It was difficult. Phil is a really good person, and we understood why he wanted to make the move.

"He's someone who has always given everything for Liverpool. He has done a great job fighting for Liverpool.

"On one side, we would have been happy for him if he could have gone as he really wanted to make the move, but on the other side as teammates you want him to stay because you know with Phil we'll be better.

"You can see it from both sides. Someone was going to be disappointed at the end of the transfer window, and it was Phil."

Coutinho has since returned to Jurgen Klopp's setup and scored in the recent matches at Leicester City and Spartak Moscow.

And Wijnaldum said he never had any concerns about Coutinho's attitude, adding: "Phil didn't just show it in these two games, but throughout last season he showed what a top player he is.

"He's an important player who can win games for us. It was normal that the club tried so hard to keep him.

"You never know what will happen in the future. But Phil is a good person and, no matter how long he's here, I know he will always give everything for Liverpool. We're so happy that he stayed."