Liverpool playmaker Philippe Coutinho has played down comments comparing him to the likes of Ronaldinho and Lionel Messi.

Coutinho was likened to the duo, both of whom are widely considered to be among the greatest players in football history, by Southampton boss Mauricio Pochettino, who worked with the 20-year-old at Espanyol.

However, Coutinho admitted that he could not be compared to such players at this early stage of his career, but hopes to emulate them in the future.

"It's always nice to hear such words from a manager you have worked with," Coutinho told the Liverpool Echo.

"But I cannot be compared with players like this. I'm honest enough to know I need to learn so much more.

"I will try to develop and do my best for Liverpool in order to improve as much as I can. Hopefully one day I will be recognised as a great player like them."

Coutinho has made five appearances and scored two goals for Liverpool since joining the club from Inter Milan in January.