Aston Villa manager Steven Gerrard has commented for the first time on the rumours linking Philippe Coutinho with a return to the Premier League at Villa Park.

Gerrard played alongside Coutinho at Liverpool and has hailed the Brazilian ‘a world-class individual player and footballer’ but refused to acknowledge whether or not he has been in direct contact with the 29-year-old over a potential move to the west midlands.

“He is a wonderful footballer,” Gerrard said.

“To share a dressing room and a pitch with Coutinho was an absolute pleasure.

“He was on a level that very few footballers are on with his imagination and creativity.

“His highlight reels are there for all to see.

“The name speaks for itself.

“But what I won’t do here or anywhere else is speak about players that belong to other clubs.

“That is not fair or respectful.

“But I do appreciate his name is out there and he is linked to Aston Villa.

“But he is also linked to five-six other clubs in this league and I am sure there would be a long list of foreign clubs that are linked with Philippe’s services as well.

“You are talking about a world-class individual and player.

“I understand and respect it but I can’t give anything further than that.”

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Aston Villa manager Steven Gerrard comments on Philippe Coutinho speculation