Brazil international Kaka has told Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers that he should build his side around Philippe Coutinho.
The 23-year-old midfielder scored a late strike from distance to help the Reds claim a 1-0 victory against Stoke City in their opening game of the Premier League season on Sunday.
Kaka has stated that his fellow countryman can help Liverpool back into the top four.
"I have been a big admirer of Coutinho and he can be a very important player for Liverpool and Brazil," the Orlando City midfielder told The Mirror.
"There will be a lot of expectation on him with Liverpool fighting to get back into the Champions League, but I know he can handle it.
"One great player doesn't make a team, but you can build a team around one, and I believe he can be that player."
Coutinho has scored 14 goals in 82 league games since joining Liverpool from Inter Milan in January 2013.
Steven Toplis
