He signed a four-year deal ahead of Crystal Palace’s visit on Sunday, with Villa 12th in the Premier League.

They haven’t played in Europe since 2010 – a Europa League play-off loss to Rapid Vienna – but Coutinho is eyeing a return.

“We can do better than we did this year and we want to achieve things like getting into Europe. I believe so much in the team and the work the staff are doing,” he told the site. club official.

“I believe that’s where we need to be, playing in the European games. That’s what we will work hard for.

“I feel good at the club. It’s a good start and I want to achieve good things with the club.

“I’m already looking forward to next year. I believe so much in the team and in the club, and we can do good things next year.

“He (manager Steven Gerrard) believes in me. We’ve known each other for a long time and I was made very welcome by him and his team when I arrived here.

“He’s a great manager, for sure. I’m happy to be led by him and his team. His ambitions are high and I believe in the same things he believes in. I want to work hard to achieve that.

“It’s a top club and I always felt welcome when I came here, from everyone, so for me today is a happy day.

“I felt very welcomed by the fans, by my team-mates and by the staff. As I said, it’s a great club and we want to achieve great things.

“I believe so much in this club and that’s why I signed here. I’m very, very happy.