Xavi Hernandez has heaped praise on Liverpool star Philippe Coutinho.

The Spain and Barcelona great believes the Brazilian playmaker has taken his game to the next level under Jurgen Klopp and has the ability to guide the Reds to the Premier League title if he can continue his current form which has him in Europe's top midfielders.

"Coutinho is a player I have always thought is special - but under Klopp he has gone up another level," Xavi told Goal.

"On form there are not any better midfield players in Europe.

"He has always shown quality but now he is consistently playing well and that is good news for Liverpool if they want to really challenge for the title.

"He is playing under one of the most intelligent coaches in Europe. Klopp has a lot of experience at developing world-class players, so it is a good club for him to be at."

Xavi, currently with Al-Sadd, added: "When you play at the level he is there is always going to be talk, but for now he needs to ignore all that and stay focused, because I think Liverpool have a real chance this season."