Philippe Coutinho handed captain's armband for Liverpool friendly

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has given Philippe Coutinho the captaincy for this afternoon's pre-season friendly with Hertha Berlin in Germany.

The Brazilian has been linked with a move away from Anfield, despite only signing a new long-term contract at the Merseyside club in January.

Reports in Spain have claimed that Barcelona have had a £72m bid rejected, but are confident that the Reds will sell for around £89m.

It is believed that Coutinho is willing to take a pay cut to join the La Liga giants, but Liverpool have sent a message today by making him captain.

The 25-year-old will lead Klopp's team out onto the pitch this afternoon, and there is also good news for Sadio Mane as he plays for the first time since suffering an ankle injury in April.