I can't influence Coutinho's decision: Liverpool skipper Henderson

Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson has said that he cannot influence star winger Phillipe Coutinho into staying at the club, adding that he will nonetheless talk to the Brazilian and attempt to change his decision.

"It's a difficult situation for Phil and whatever I say won't help matters. We want Phil to stay because he is a world-class player," Henderson was quoted as saying by SkySports on Tuesday.

Coutinho submitted a transfer request by email last week after the club rejected second offer from former European champions FC Barcelona.

Currently recovering from an injury, the attacking midfielder reported for training at Liverpool's Melwood base on Tuesday.

"Ask anybody in the team - they want him to stay. I don't think I can influence the situation. That's down to Phil and the club.

"I have had conversations with Phil as he is my teammate. I'm close to him and I have a lot of respect for him," Henderson said.

Henderson added that the uncertainty surrounding his teammate's future will not affect the club's focus as they prepare to take on German Bundesliga side Hoffenheim in a Champions League play-off tie.

"The focus won't be affected at all. For us the biggest focus is Hoffenheim," Henderson said.

"We'll stay together and make sure we take a good result back. "We've got to take the opportunity."

--IANS

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