Liverpool injury news: Jurgen Klopp expects Philippe Coutinho return against Southampton

Jurgen Klopp expects Philippe Coutinho back for the Capital One Cup quarter-final at Southampton on 2 December after the Liverpool playmaker missed both the 1-0 win over Swansea City and the midweek Europe League game with Bordeaux due to an injury. The news comes after both Daniel Sturridge and Jordan Henderson returned to action during the victory over the Wales side following spells on the sidelines.

The 23-year-old Brazilian international had become a key figure for the Reds during Klopp's early weeks in charge, netting four goals in three matches. But his chance to impress further suffered a blow after being forced to leave the pitch during the second half of the 4-1 win over Manchester City with a hamstring issue. However, Klopp expects to have him back for the trip to the south coast.

"I think so, yes," Klopp said, as quoted by Liverpool's official website after the win over Swansea. "Philippe had a very intensive session yesterday but we decided two or three days ago that we didn't want to risk [him] for this game.

"Now I think he's fit. I saw him in the dressing room and he looks good. I'll have to talk with him tomorrow – I think he's ready for Southampton."

Klopp was also delighted to have both Henderson and Sturridge back in the squad ahead of the busy Christmas period. The two England internationals made their first appearance under the German boss against Swansea after the midfielder broke his fifth metatarsal earlier in the season and the striker had been plagued by injuries since last year.

"It was good news for the big Liverpool family," Klopp said. "They are two very important players for us and they're back in the race. They did well for their situation and from where they've come from after a long break with difficult injuries. Now they are back and that's really good for us."