The Brazilian dazzled during Saturday’s 6-0 thrashing of Newcastle, but is adamant that having such quality strikers in front of him makes his creative role much simpler

Liverpool new-boy Philippe Coutinho insists the attacking quality of fellow January arrival Daniel Sturridge made it easier for him to shine against Newcastle on Saturday.

In the absence of the suspended Luis Suarez, Coutinho played a key role in the dismantling of the Magpies at St James’ Park, including two assists and several stunning through balls.

But the Brazilian is adamant the the off-the-ball movement and finishing ability of the likes of Sturridge and Suarez makes them a playmaker’s dream.

“He is an excellent player and very intelligent,” Coutinho told reporters. “He has a lot of technique and scores a lot of goals – I am very pleased to play alongside him.

“Luis and Sturridge move a lot and that makes things easier for the player with the ball – we can put the ball in the empty space and I think that makes things easier for the player that plays behind them.

“By playing with huge players like the ones we have at Liverpool I can learn a lot and I hope to be able to learn more every day to get better and better.”

As well as contributing to three of his side’s goals on Saturday Coutinho, who signed from Inter in January, has scored twice for the Anfield side in just 10 games – form he is keen to continue.

“I believe the game was very important, all of the players played well and we achieved a very important result,” he added.

“I believe my performances have got better and I think it was my best game here. I hope that I can continue to improve.

“I love to create assists. When you play up front you want to create chances, either for yourself or your teammates, and score goals. I hope to help the team by doing this.”