Brendan Rodgers talks up defensive qualities following win over Southampton

Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers has hailed his side's defensive showing following their 2-0 away victory over Southampton in the Premier League.

The Anfield club put in a resolute defensive shift as goals either side of half time from Philippe Coutinho and Raheem Sterling gave them all three points at St Mary's.

"We defended absolutely magnificently. Our passing could have been better, but the conditions were very difficult and to come here and get a clean sheet was a great effort," said Rodgers, according to Sky Sports News.

"I thought we were really organised as a team and controlled the game as it went on. It was an outstanding win for us. It is difficult to come here and get a result at any time of the season, but on the back of a European game it is a brilliant win by the players.

"It was something we knew we had to improve. At the beginning of the season we could not quite get the offensive and defensive balance right in the team. But now there is."

Liverpool currently hold sixth spot in the Premier League table.