Liverpool edge out Leicester in five-goal thriller

Philippe Coutinho scored and had an assist as Liverpool beat Leicester 3-2 at the King Power Stadium.

The Brazilian was back to his best as the Reds gained revenge for their Carabao Cup defeat at the same venue on Wednesday.

Coutinho, who was the subject of several bids from Barcelona during the summer transfer window, proved the difference between the sides on his first league start of the season.

The 25-year-old provided Liverpool's opener when his floated a backpost cross that was headed home by Mohamad Salah between the near the post and keeper Kasper Schmeichel.

It was a relief for the Egyptian who had earlier missed a simple chance after being the first to react to a Emre Can effort that cannoned off the post.

Liverpool were in complete control at this point and it was no surprise when Coutinho doubled their lead with an inch-perfect free kick that sailed into the corner from 25 yards.

The visitors showed their long-standing defence frailties as the first half wore on and allowed the 2015-16 champions back in the match.

Shinji Okazaki gave them hope just before the break when he poked home from close range after Reds keeper Simon Mignolet failed to punch to safety.

Liverpool appeared to put the game safe when Jordan Henderson re-established their two goal lead firing home at the end of a sweeping move after Jamie Vardy had a shot blocked at the other end.

Vardy did get on the score-sheet shortly later when another Mignolet mistake allowed him to head home from close range.

The England striker then had the chance to claim a point for the Foxes after Mignolet brought him down in the box.

The Belgian goalkeeper made amends when he stood firm to block the striker's powerful spot kick.

You can watch all of Liverpool’s Champions League campaign on the eir Sport package. Jurgen Klopp’s side will face Sevilla, Maribor and Spartak Moscow in Group E.

Image: Getty Images/Michael Regan

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