Jamie Carragher has claimed that Philippe Coutinho is now Liverpool's best player following a string of impressive performances this season.

The Brazilian midfielder has played a key role in the Reds' quest for a top-four finish, scoring four goals and providing four assists so far.

Carragher claims that he had doubts about the 22-year-old last season, but the former defender now admits that Coutinho has improved dramatically in the past 12 months.

"Last season Luis Suarez was Liverpool's main man, the go-to man. But as this season has progressed, and for the future, Coutinho is Liverpool's," he told Sky Sports News.

"When Liverpool were going for the title last year I still was not convinced he was a real top player, but he's getting really close now. He looks the best player every week."

Liverpool kept their hopes of Champions League qualification alive on Monday with a 2-0 win over Newcastle United at Anfield.