Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp was happy with the quality shown by midfielder Adam Lallana against Aston Villa.

The Englishman earned a rare start this season ahead of several key players, such as James Milner and Naby Keita.

And he did not disappoint Klopp, showing his ability to serve as a creative link in central midfield.

The Reds came from behind to win 2-1 at Villa Park.

"It was not so difficult because we had a look at the things we needed against Villa and I think you saw how good Adam Lallana worked in that system," Klopp told reporters.

"It's a game (Villa) where we had a lot of possession. We had to see how Adam recovered from midweek, but at the moment he is fine. The decision was not so difficult.

"Adam did really well, he played a really good game. In a game like this, you need that kind of deeper playmaker. That's how it is.

"From that position, pass the ball, chip the ball, all that stuff. And he did that. He had a lot of ball recoveries, was good in the air, it was a good game."