Aston Villa manager Steven Gerrard has supported attacking midfielder Philippe Coutinho to get his rhythm back, saying the Brazil international needs “a bit of luck” just like his team.

Coutinho has not scored or provided an assist in his 11 games this season for Villa, who sit two places above the Premier League relegation zone with nine points from 10 games.

“(Because of) his age and his talent, I have complete confidence and belief in Phil,” Gerrard told reporters on Wednesday, a day before his team’s trip to Fulham.

“Obviously, the statistics at the moment suggest that he is not in the best place or at his best, which we all understand. But we, as a team, and I as his coach, will give him all the support he needs,” he added.

Villa have not won any of their last three English league games.

“He’s pushing, he’s trying and, like the team, he might need that little bit of luck to help him believe and trust himself,” Gerrard said.