Liverpool: Philippe Coutinho a doubt for Newcastle United match

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has warned his in-form players that confidence is delicate like a small flower ahead of their game against Newcastle United in the Premier League.

Origi scored his first goal for Liverpool against Southampton in the 6-1 League Cup win on Wednesday night, and added another two goals to seal a hat-trick in the one-sided affair at St. Mary’s.

The Brazil worldwide was expected to make his comeback against Newcastle at St James’ Park on Sunday, but his recovery is taking longer than expected.

“It’s simple instructions from the manager saying ‘this is what I want you to do – keep doing it and you’ll get some success’. Sometimes it happens like this”, said Klopp, who had hoped to use the midfielder in midweek. There’s nothing to criticise about this.

“We were too optimistic with Phil. He’s trained almost but he doesn’t feel comfortable”.

“We have to take care of this”, said Klopp. “We may have to wait a long time to enjoy a football match like we did tonight”. “So today we have to wait again”.

Liverpool have won seven of their last eight games in all competitions under Klopp, who took charge in October, and looks unrecognisable from the one that struggled under predecessor Brendan Rodgers early this season.

“I don’t know many we will change for the next game but we will have some options”.

He cited the improved morale and good feeling at the club, the fact the Reds have played all of the top six away from home already, that their rivals are failing to dominate the league, squad depth and Daniel Sturridge’s return, among other reasons.

Origi benefited from a pep-talk from Jurgen Klopp before the game but despite the Belgian showing glimpses of why Liverpool paid Lille £10m two summers ago, the manager has cautioned against expectation. “But it’s important that we just get back to working hard and putting in a shift in and getting the basics right”.

“He felt each muscle after the game, but it was intensive”. Good for him and good for us. “We have conceded 30 goals in 14 game and that’s not good enough”. That is normal. In this moment he is available for the weekend.

“Hendo made a big step in the last few weeks and that’s the best news”.

“He has lifted all of the fans, he has lifted all of the staff and you can see that he has lifted all of the players as well”, said Gerrard, who has been training with his old club.