Philippe Coutinho sent 'moment of truth' message after Aston Villa transfer

Philippe Coutinho has been told that he faces a ‘moment of truth’ in his career following a transfer to Aston Villa.

The Brazilian arrived at Villa Park earlier this month, signing on loan from Barcelona, and made an instant impact coming off the bench to score the equalising goal against Manchester United on his debut for the club.

Coutinho has failed to hit the heights that saw him complete a £146m move from Liverpool to the Nou Camp back in January 2018.

Injury, along with a loss of form, has led to the forward not making an international appearance for Brazil since October 2020, being an unused substitute for the last two games.

But that could change in the next few hours, as Brazil take on Ecuador, a game where Coutinho could be given another chance.

Former Brazil international Rivaldo says that it’s a chance that the Villa man must take, as well as continuing to impress for his new club.

“Losing to Ecuador on Thursday wouldn't have consequences for Brazil, so this is the right moment to make some changes and analyse other players in a competitive match,” he told Betfair .

“One of them will be Philippe Coutinho who continues to have Tite's faith, despite the criticism the manager has received for picking the Aston Villa man. With Brazil missing Lucas Paquetá and Neymar, Coutinho could start against Ecuador.

“In a World Cup year, Coutinho should be grateful that Tite remains confident about his capabilities and is prepared to face flack on his behalf.

“Coutinho has started well with Aston Villa, so it seems that he is in a new phase of his career, with opportunities in the Premier League and also with the national team.

“How things go for him from here will depend on his efforts to take advantage of those