Liverpool star Philippe Coutinho out of Brazil squad with Chelsea duo Oscar and Willian included

Brazil manager Dunga has left Liverpool star Philippe Coutinho out of his squad for the coming World Cup 2018 qualifiers against Argentina and Peru in November to make space for Kaka. Fellow Liverpool player Roberto Firmino, who has been out of action since late September due to a back injury, is also out of his plans, but Chelsea duo Oscar and Willian, as well Manchester City midfielder Fernandinho, made the cut in his 23-man squad.

The Liverpool pair were expected to be one of the strongholds of Dunga's national team alongside Barcelona star Neymar following Brazil's disappointed World Cup of 2014. Both Coutinho and Firmino were therefore part of the Copa America squad during the last summer tournament but have since struggled to feature in Dunga's plans due to injuries and for tactical reasons.

Coutinho was recalled by the manager for the latest qualifiers against Chile and Venezuela earlier this month but eventually missed both games after been withdrawn due to an injury, with former Real Madrid star and current Orlando City veteran Kaka taking his place.

The 23-year-old star, however, proved his fitness for the Reds after the international break in the 0-0 at Tottenham last weekend but Dunga has now opted to snub him ahead of the two coming qualifiers in November with Kaka keeping his spot in the squad.

Firmino, meanwhile, has returned to training with Jurgen Klopp's new side but having being out of action since the Capital One Cup encounter with Carlisle United is also out of the squad.

Barcelona star Neymar returns to captain the side after missing the last two games due to suspension, while Oscar, Willian and Fernandinho are the the three Premier League representatives, with former Chelsea left-back Filipe Luis also in the list.