Aston Villa attacker Philippe Coutinho will be axed from Brazil's squad for the World Cup.

The creative no.10 has not scored or assisted in 12 games in all competitions this season.

The 30-year-old was signed by Steven Gerrard at Villa in the summer, following a successful half-season on loan at the Villa Park club.

However, his form dipped substantially this term, while Gerrard has now been replaced by Unai Emery as manager.

Per Sport, Brazil manager Tite is likely to prefer Everton Ribeiro from Flamengo to Coutinho.

The ex-Liverpool and Barca attacker will be disappointed, given he has notched 21 goals and 11 assists in 69 games for Brazil.