'Special' former Liverpool star Coutinho makes FAIRYTALE return to Vasco da Gama

The Liverpool legacy of Philippe Coutinho is filled with incredible moments. 

Joining the Reds in 2013, the Brazilian playmaker enjoyed a positive spell at Anfield, becoming a key member of the first team and lighting up the Premier League with his samba skills and eye for goal. 

Liverpool fans around the world have such fond memories of Coutinho, and the attacking midfielder has rolled back the years for his current club Vasco da Gama. 

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The former Reds number 10 controversially left Liverpool in 2018 to join Barcelona. He then had spells at Bayern Munich, Al Duhail and Aston Villa. 

Coutinho is still currently contracted at Villa, but this summer was sent out on loan to Brazilian team Vasco, where he came through as a young player. Last night, he returned to the squad following some time out with his team playing against Flamengo in a league game. 

Coutinho's fairytale Vasco return

Vasco found themselves 1-0 down in the 72nd minute, sparking some substitutions. One of these was Coutinho himself who came on two minutes later. 

The little Brazilians' impact was golden. As Puma Rodriguez received the ball down the right-hand side, he smashed the ball into the box where the on-running Coutinho headed into the net causing wild celebrations from the fans. 

Speaking after the match, coach Rafael Paiva praised Coutinho. As reported by Globo Esporte, Paiva said: 'Coutinho is a special player. He is very talented and has the ability to decide the game in any move. He will help us a lot, we will do everything to have him in every game."

Coutinho's role and importance in the team is clearly visible. The wealth of experience he has is priceless and even at 32 years old, he is still producing big moments on the big stages.

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This goal is a welcoming reminder to Liverpool fans of how good Philippe really was. One user on Reddit stated, ‘Seeing this brought so many great memories of PC back and now I am filled with a great sadness.’ 

Although he may have left a sour taste when he left Liverpool six years ago, seeing Coutinho scoring again has left fans feeling nostalgic.

What a player.