Liverpool chairman Tom Werner has discussed Philippe Coutinho's departure in January.

The midfielder joined Barcelona in midseason and went onto win the LaLiga and Copa del Rey.

“First of all, we would have preferred that Philippe remained at the club," Werner told the Liverpool Echo.

“It really wasn't a gamble because it wasn't something that we initiated, it wasn't something that we wanted to happen.

“I remember one of our supporters saying when we were privileged to become stewards of the club in 2010 that no player is more important than the club and that has always resonated with me.

“I think when Philippe was adamant about leaving, it was our job and more importantly Jurgen's job to turn the page, move on and do what we could to continue progressing.

“Obviously, Jurgen's strategy was successful. We were very fortunate to be able to finally sign Virgil van Dijk. I think he has stabilised the defence for sure and made the players around him stronger. We have moved on and we have progressed."