Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers says his team’s poor record at St Mary’s will have no bearing on this evening’s match.

The Reds have lost on each of their last three visits to face Saints, while they were also beaten 1-0 at Anfield earlier this term.

Last season, Rodgers’ side arrived on the south coast having won three consecutive Premier League games, only to be thumped 3-1.

Liverpool are in particularly exceptional form right now, however, with an eight-game unbeaten run pushing them back into contention for the Premier League title.

“We focus very much on ourselves and our own performance,” said Rodgers. “We have to respect them, they’re a good side, and particularly at home, where it is a difficult place to go.

“Obviously, people will look at history and try and compare and judge, but I think we’re a team playing with confidence and we feel we can go to any ground and get a positive result. It won’t really have any bearing on the game.”

Rodgers also revealed his admiration for Saints’ commitment to playing young English talent.

“It’s great to see the likes of young Luke Shaw doing very well. He’s 18 years of age and a wonderful talent,” he said.

Adam Lallana has been around a long time, but still is young and a wonderful, creative player.

Rickie Lambert I’ve got big admiration for, because of his journey as a footballer and in life, and he’s ended up being a really good player at this level, and going on to become an England player.

Jay Rodriguez as well spent time at Burnley in the Championship and has really progressed since he’s been there.

“I take great pride in seeing young guys like Jack Cork – Jack played in my youth team at Chelsea and was an outstanding young player, and he’s gone on and had a terrific career.

“It’s good to see that, when the British talent can progress.”