Rafael Benitez: 'Newcastle United must remain solid against Liverpool'

Newcastle United manager Rafael Benitez has heaped praise on Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp ahead of the Premier League fixture between the two sides.

On Sunday afternoon, the Magpies host a Liverpool team who have come in for criticism for their mixed displays this season, with their quality in attack being cancelled out by mistakes at the back.

However, Benitez - who famously coached Liverpool to the 2005 Champions League crown - has warned his team that they must remain "solid" during the showdown at St James' Park.

The 57-year-old told reporters: "I have met Jurgen Klopp at UEFA coaches meetings. He is a great manager doing a good job. Hopefully Liverpool play well after this game.

"People say Liverpool are weak in defence but they are strong in attack. We need to be strong, be solid, don't give them a chance to create.

"We lost against Brighton and we have to change things quickly. We have to be ready for anything. It's a long season."

Newcastle can move above Liverpool in the standings if they emerge victorious in the North-East.