Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp is delighted with the mentality of his players.

And Klopp has challenged them to maintain that mindset through what he calls “the slog" ­between now and Christmas.

“Oh yes, we knew how ­important that would be," Klopp said.

“We were criticised about our pre-season and we were not good, that is the truth, but it was my fault that we had heavy legs. My priority was to be ready for the new season.

"It wasn't about playing the best football, but winning the (first four) games. I'm so pleased we have done that because it was really difficult to be ready given that four or five players came back from their summer break only in the last 10 days.

“But so far it has worked."