Jordan Henderson has admitted he can't influence Philippe Coutinho's decision over his future.
But the Liverpool skipper has insisted he will speak to the Brazilian midfielder, to ensure he pleads the case for the Reds.
Henderson is in Germany for the vital Champions' League play-off tie with Hoffenheim, in a game where he believes the Reds will be inspired by the anger of losing the 2016 Europa League final to a leap forward in Europe.
But the focus was inevitably on the player who wasn't there, with Coutinho's back injury preventing him from being part of the travelling squad.
And the captain explained that while he respects his team-mate's decision, all of the squad are hoping the Brazilian will stay.
"It’s a difficult situation for Phil and whatever I say won’t help matters...but we want Phil to stay because he’s a world class player,” Henderson said.
Asked what he can do to persuade the midfielder to stay, he added: "Good question. I don't think I can influence the situation but I can have conversations with him."
Henderson insisted that the players are focused on the task in hand, and not thinking about anything outside their control.
And he believes that despite the disappointment of late dropped points at Watford at the weekend, Liverpool will remain positive in Hoffenheim.
“It’s a great opportunity, we’re excited to be here,” he said.
“We were disappointed to concede the late goal at Watford but we’re still positive. Hopefully we can put in a good performance tomorrow and take a good result back to Anfield.”
