'Need a bit more' - Why Steven Gerrard substituted Philippe Coutinho against Liverpool

Former Aston Villa striker Gabriel Agbonlahor has outlined why he thinks Steven Gerrard brought Philippe Coutinho off against Liverpool.

Coutinho, 29, returned to the starting line-up on Tuesday night after dropping to the bench for the 3-1 victory against Burnley last weekend, as Villa went on to be defeated 2-1 at home to Liverpool. The Brazilian's return to Steven Gerrard's starting XI came after news emerged of a breakthrough in terms of negotiations for the permanent transfer of the player from Barcelona to Villa.

Villa are reportedly working on the final details of a deal in the region of just €17million to acquire the services of Coutinho, as Gerrard emphasised how "keen" he was to keep him at the club. Speaking on talkSPORT, former Villa striker Gabby Agbonlahor has commented on the potential deal and also outlined why he believes Gerrard substituted Coutinho in the 70th minute of the Liverpool game.

"It's not £33million anymore and there's talk about it being half of that," said Agbonlahor. "I think Villa are going in with a lower bid because Barcelona need him off their books.

"So for €17million I think it's a good bit of business and hopefully he can attract better players to Villa as well. Steven Gerrard will want to be back in Europe, he had a great run with Rangers and will want to get Villa into those European places."

Former Rangers striker Ally McCoist also commented on the deal for Coutinho, where he said: "I like him, I do like him and I think he is incredibly talented but I'm just looking for a bit more. We all know it's in there.

To which Agbonlahor replied: "I think Gerrard is as well. He's looking at him and thinking 'you know what, I need a bit more' and that's why he's been bringing him off