The Brazilian international Philippe Coutinho has dispelled reports that he wants to quit Aston Villa, calling them "lies" and putting an end to reports that he is considering doing so.
The former playmaker, who has played for Liverpool and Barcelona, first arrived to Villa Park in January on a temporary loan under Steven Gerrard.
When a productive stint during the off-season, Barca offered a permanent transfer, but Unai Emery took over as manager of the Midlands side after Steven Gerrard was fired in October.
The 30-year-old was reportedly looking to leave his current club in the January transfer window, but Coutinho has debunked such rumours on social media.
"In the last few days I've seen a lot of news with my name," he said in an Instagram post. "The problem is now that some lies have started, and I'm here to clarify.
"Never, and at any moment, [have I] had any kind of conversation asking to leave the club, because I'm happy here and my family [are] too.
"My only focus now that I've recovered from injury is to work at the maximum every day, to play [at] a high level, and help the club and my team-mates to achieve our goals."
It has been a tough campaign for Coutinho so far, with form and injury struggles contributing to him losing his position in the Brazil squad ahead of the World Cup.
After recording eight goal involvements (five goals, three assists) in 19 Premier League games during his initial loan spell, he has failed to contribute any in 13 league games since the move was made permanent.