Brendan Rodgers has "high hopes" for Philippe Coutinho

Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers has spoken of his "high hopes" for new signing Philippe Coutinho.

The 20-year-old forward joined Liverpool from Inter Milan in the January transfer window.

Rodgers has revealed that he will gradually try to ease Coutinho into the side rather than play him instantly, like the former Swansea boss did with Daniel Sturridge following his move to Anfield from Chelsea.

"He's a young player I've got very high hopes for but Daniel was ready to come in and play - we'll see how young Philippe goes," said Rodgers.

"He trained with the group on Friday and we'll observe him and see where he's at but competition for places is what we want, that was the whole idea of bringing him in.

"He's a top young player with big experiences and bringing him into the group adds that competition."

Liverpool face West Bromwich Albion in the Premier League on Monday night.