Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers believes that the "outstanding" Philippe Coutinho is among the world's finest players after another dazzling performance on Monday.

Coutinho impressed in last night's 2-0 win over Newcastle United as the Brazilian's stock continues to rise in what has been his flagship season at Anfield.

Reds legend Jamie Carragher claims that the 22-year-old schemer has filled the void left by Luis Suarez, and Rodgers agrees that he has developed into one of the world's best.

"I thought he was incredible," he told reporters "I thought he showed that he's really up there with the very, very best in the most competitive league in the world, which is the Barclays Premier League.

"I played him in that role just in front of the centre-halves, thinking that we could exploit the space in between their midfield and the centre-halves and create space for players to make runs in behind. I thought he was sensational.

"He was a kid that always had the ability, but he's become stronger, become more tactically aware and I think you see him now really orchestrating the game for us. It was an outstanding performance, he looked very fit and strong, and he's had a wonderful season."

Coutinho was included in Sports Mole Premier League Team of the Week following his display against the Magpies.