Steven Gerrard insists Aston Villa are not in a rush to activate Philippe Coutinho’s permanent transfer clause.
The Brazilian has made a sensational impact back in the Premier League after joining Villa on loan from Barcelona last month.
Villa are paying less than half his £150,000-a-week wages and have an option to buy him this summer for £33million.
Some fans and pundits are urging Villa to already commit to the deal after Coutinho scored twice in three appearances.
He also has two assists but Villa boss Gerrard, who used to play with Coutinho at Liverpool, has explained why there is no rush over his ex-team-mate’s future.
Asked about potentially activating his £33m permanent clause, Gerrard replied: “It’s not the time to discuss that.
“There’s a lot of football to be played and he’s only just arrived.
“The main focus for me, the player and everyone around him is to just keep him in this place, let’s enjoy him and let’s keep contributing to the team.
“He’s been a big help since he’s come in in terms of his numbers and the lift he’s given everyone.
“The right time, the right day and the right place will come when we decide to make a decision.
“We also have to respect this is Phil’s career and he’s a big part of whatever happens as well and we’ll discuss that at the right time.”
Jacob Ramsey - nicknamed JJ -scored with either foot against Leeds in the 3-3 draw in midweek after being assisted on both occasions by Coutinho, who earlier equalised.
Gerrard added: “I think when Phil arrived it has got JJ excited.
“And once Phil has arrived and seen the talent in JJ, I think good players always connect.
“They are on the same wavelength.”
Ramsey ,20, has now made 20 Premier League appearances this season and scored five goals and got one assist.
He netted twice in midweek to prompt former England and Liverpool skipper Gerrard to tip Ramsey for full international honours soon.
Gerrard said: “He knows he’s playing well but he’s not getting carried away.
“It’s important you stay humble and grounded and realise you have to keep working as hard as you can at all aspects of your game to remain as consistent for as long as you can.
“To stay that consistent at the top level when all eyes are on you and people are talking about you, it’s important to stay respectful and focus on your career.
“It’s important you make the right sacrifices as well to stay at the top.
“But knowing JJ as I do in a short space of time he seems very level-headed, very calm.”
