Coutinho keen to help Aston Villa qualify for Europe after completing £17m from Barcelona

Philippe Coutinho is targeting a return to Europe with Steven Gerrard’s Aston Villa after his £17m move to the Premier League side.

The 29-year-old initially joined Villa on loan in January but this move has now been made permanent.

Coutinho penned a four-year deal with Aston Villa sitting 12th in the Premier League table.

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They have not played in Europe since 2010 – a Europa League play-off defeat to Rapid Vienna – but Coutinho is eyeing a comeback.

“We can do better than we did this year and we want to achieve things like getting into Europe. I believe so much in the squad and the work the staff is doing,” he told the club’s official site.

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“I believe that’s where we have to be, playing in European games. That’s what we will work hard for.

“I feel happy in the club. It’s been a good start and I want to achieve good things with the club.

“I’m already looking forward to the next year. I believe so much in the squad and the club, and we can achieve good things next year.

“He (manager Steven Gerrard) believes in me. We’ve known each other for a long time and I felt very welcome from him and his staff when I arrived here.

“He’s a great manager, for sure. I’m happy to be managed by