Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp has paid tribute to Mikel Arteta ahead of Monday's clash with Arsenal.

Klopp was generous in his praise for Arteta today as he prepares to take on the Gunners on Monday.

"Mikel Arteta has shown in a pretty short period of time that he seems an exceptional football manager," said Klopp.

"The team he sets up now, the structure of the team is absolutely exceptional. The balance between offence and defence is really good. Good organisation, freedom for the players as well, he uses players in the right positions.

"He has done a pretty impressive job and changed the whole mood of the club. So it's a tough, tough opponent."

Klopp confirms captain Jordan Henderson is not yet ready to return from a thigh injury that forced him off against Chelsea last weekend.

Joel Matip is also still sidelined but Joe Gomez and Billy Koumetio are expected to resume training today.

New signing Thiago Alcantara, who made his debut as a second-half substitute in place of Henderson at Stamford Bridge, could make his first start.

Speaking about Thiago's chances of starting against the Gunners, Klopp said: “We will see, we will see. We have a few days to train, some boys have to recover from last night, so we will see how we set up against Arsenal.

“I have an idea, but why should I make the decision today when we have time until Monday? But he is in contention, for sure. Yeah, let's see."