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'It is ugly to see a team-mate get booed' - Messi defends oft-criticised Coutinho

Lionel Messi came out to defend Philippe Coutinho amid criticism over the Brazilian's recent form.

Coutinho struggled to get a hole of the game in Wednesday's 3-0 Champions League victory over Liverpool, the Brazil star's former club.

He was eventually taken out of the match in the 60th minute, with Ernesto Valverde opting to bring on defender Nelson Semedo in his stead.

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Coutinho has proven a frequent target of the Camp Nou crowd, earning boos in recent weeks before responding with a stunning goal against Manchester United and a message back to the supporters in the form of a celebration.