Brighton midfielder Adam Lallana is adamant injuries are to blame for the collapse of Liverpool's title defence this season.

Jurgen Klopp's side are currently seventh in the table, a huge 25 points behind leaders Manchester City heading into the final few months of the season.

Former Reds midfielder told talkSPORT: “I think the reason is there for everybody to see. It's obviously an indifferent season.

“The injuries that they have had. You cannot hide from that.

"It's not an excuse. I know a lot of the players, and I still speak to them now, and they won't be using that as an excuse, but I think it's a reason why they have struggled a bit this season.

“I am more than confident that they will bounce back next season when they have a few more players back and a few more fans in.

“And they still have a lot to play for this season. I am pretty sure they will want to finish in that top four, for sure."