Liverpool injury news: Reds breathe easy after scans show Philippe Coutinho's injury to be minor

Liverpool have been handed a major injury boost after Philippe Coutinho escaped a lengthy layoff due to a hamstring strain he suffered during the Reds' 4-1 win over Manchester City on Saturday (21 November). The midfielder limped off after 68 minutes at the Etihad Stadium with Jurgen Klopp hoping it was a minor injury to his in-form midfield star.

According to the Guardian, the Merseyside club can rest easy after scans revealed the injury to be only a minor one after initial fears suggested something more serious than just a cramp. This was the former Borussia Dortmund manager's initial diagnosis post their emphatic victory over the Premier League title favourites. The Brazilian midfielder is expected to be rested for Liverpool's midweek Europa League clash against Bordeaux, but could make a comeback for their home clash against Swansea City on Sunday (29 November).

Coutinho is the form player in Klopp's team following a man of the match performance against the Citizens in which he scored the second goal and set up the third for his countryman Roberto Firmino. He has scored four goals in his last three appearances and his presence for the visit of Garry Monk's team will be crucial as the Reds look to get back into the top four after a difficult start to the season. They are currently in the ninth place, six points behind Arsenal in the fourth.

The report claims that the Merseyside club's medical staff will continue to monitor the Brazilian international's progress, with initial assessments suggesting a quick return to first-team action. Daniel Sturridge, meanwhile, could get a run out with the first-team during their clash against the Ligue 1 side on Thursday (26 November) after being an unused substitute at the Etihad Stadium. The England international, who is yet to play under Klopp, has declared himself fit and ready for action after recovering from a hip injury.