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Neymar believes Philippe Coutinho will emerge as the brightest star in the Premier League.

The Barcelona superstar has known the Liverpool striker since they were kids playing together for the Brazil Under-17 team.

Coutinho, 22, displayed his breathtaking skills to clinch Liverpool’s passage past Bolton in Wednesday’s FA Cup replay victory.

And Neymar said: “He can be the star player in England. This season I think everybody in England is seeing how talented he is - and I know he has a lot more to show.

“We have been good friends since we were 16. Not only is he a fantastic player, he is a good guy to have in the dressing room, always positive and making jokes.”

(Image: Alex Livesey)

Neymar says his Samba pal can give Liverpool that spark they have lacked since Luis Suarez joined him at the Nou Camp.

“I think since Luis joined us at Barcelona, Liverpool have not had that one player they can look to for that special moment,” said Neymar.

“Couto can be that player for them I’m sure. When he has the ball at his feet, he can make things happen for himself and he can make things happen for other players. He is a very special player.”

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Brazil coach Dunga recalled him after he was ignored for the World Cup in his homeland and Neymar has tipped him to have a long international career.

“He will play a big part in the future of the national team,” he said. “The national steam is very strong, but the way he is playing for Liverpool, I’m sure he will be a big part of Brazil going forward.”