Liverpool boss aims dig at Southampton

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp feels Arsenal were handed an easy win against Southampton after the south Coast club opted for a more open approach to their gameplay.

The Reds were frustrated in their bid to attain three points over the weekend after a resolute Saints' defence kept the match scoreless.

However, Claude Puel's side did not quite utilise a similar approach against Arsenal with an open game leading to the Gunners winning by a 2-0 scoreline - their first win at St.Mary's for a while.

In his pre-match press conference prior to the West Ham game, Klopp was particularly critical of the Saints' decision as it could yet cost his side a valuable spot in next season's Champions League.

“In our last game against Southampton we had 70 percent possession,” Klopp said, via Metro.

“Southampton played very, very defensive orientated against us.

“I saw their game on Wednesday (against Arsenal) and it was a very open game.

“I’m not sure why they did this favour to Arsenal but it was a completely different game.” 

The Reds currently occupy the third position in the Premier League, four points ahead of fifth-placed Arsenal, who do have a game in hand. 

A defeat at West Ham United this weekend could have a denting effect on Liverpool's Champions League hopes as it would provide Arsenal the route to the elite competition, should they maintain a 100 percent record.