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Liverpool attacker Philippe Coutinho has withdrawn from the Brazil squad for their World Cup qualifiers against Chile and Venezuela due to injury.

The 23-year-old played the full 90 minutes of the Reds’ 1-1 draw with Everton at Goodison on Sunday but has informed the Brazilian Football Confederation that he’s unfit for international duty.

Kaka, who now plies his trade for Orlando City in Major Leaguer Soccer in America, has been called up as Coutinho’s replacement in Dunga’s squad.

The problem for Coutinho is a groin issue, though it is unclear how long he will be unavailable for. Liverpool, as yet, have put no timeframe on his recovery. The Reds' next fixture is away at Tottenham on 17 October.

Brazil take on Chile in Santiago on Thursday before hosting Venezuela in Fortaleza five days later.

Coutinho struggled to impress in a Merseyside derby which was swiftly followed by Brendan Rodgers’ sacking as Liverpool manager. The Brazilian will now remain at Melwood during the international break.