Leeds United defender Kyle Bartley has admitted that he is “happy” that Philippe Coutinho will not feature for Liverpool in his side’s EFL Cup quarter-final clash at Anfield on Tuesday night.
Coutinho, who has been in fantastic form for Liverpool in the current campaign, picked up an ankle injury in the Reds’ 2-0 win over Sunderland at the weekend.
The Brazil international has thus far scored six goals and provided as many assists in 14 appearances in all competitions for the Merseyside giants this season.
Although the extent of Coutinho’s injury is yet to be known, it is certain that the midfielder will play no part against Leeds at Anfield.
And Bartley, who acknowledged that Coutinho’s absence is good news for his side, was however, quick to add that Liverpool still have a fantastic squad at their disposal, despite the 24-year-old’s injury setback.
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"I'm happy about that one, I'm not going to lie”, he said in his pre-match press conference on Monday, when asked about Coutinho's absence.
“But they have a fantastic squad.”
Bartley, who insisted that Leeds are eager to show that they belong in the top flight by putting in a strong performance against Liverpool, explained that the Whites fans will relish the encounter at Anfield.
"Hopefully we can show we belong in the top flight”, he continued.
“It will be brilliant for the fans."
Leeds, who beat Rotherham United 2-1 on Saturday, are presently fifth in the Championship table.
