Steven Gerrard: 'Philippe Coutinho is the next big thing at Liverpool'

By Danielle Joynson, Staff Reporter | 20 May 2015

Steven Gerrard believes that Philippe Coutinho is the "next big thing" at Liverpool after the Brazilian scooped four awards at the annual end-of-season dinner.

Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard is confident that Philippe Coutinho will become the club's new talisman following an impressive season for the Brazilian.

Overall, the Reds failed to meet expectations in this campaign as they didn't qualify for the Champions League and fell at the semi-final stage of both the League Cup and FA Cup.

However, on an individual level, Coutinho has shone and he was rewarded at the club's end-of-season dinner on Tuesday night by winning Goal of the Year, Performance of the Year, Players' Player of the Year and Player of the Year.

During Gerrard's acceptance speech after winning a special Outstanding Achievement award, the midfielder decided to pay tribute to his Brazilian teammate.

"I'm a bit bored of making all these speeches, so I want to pay tribute to Philippe - this is his night," said Gerrard. "He cleaned up all the awards and deservedly so. He's the next big thing for me. I hope he stays for a long time and helps us win some more trophies."

Coutinho, who joined the Merseyside club from Inter Milan in 2013, signed a new contract earlier this season.