Klopp insists 'super-strong' Arsenal have every chance of winning Premier League

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp says that Arsenal are a true title contender this season and they have got even better than last term, ahead of the two sides meeting at Anfield on Saturday with the winner going top of the Premier League table for Christmas.

The Gunners led the league table for much of last season but fell away towards the end with Manchester City steamrolling to a title triumph.

But Klopp thinks that Mikel Arteta's side have improved this year.

Asked if they were real contenders, Klopp said: 'I thought they looked like that last year to be honest and then some results kicked in.

'I can remember our game here, they were outstanding until we found a way into the game and then maybe in the end we should have won it.

'Maybe they had other chances as well but I can't remember them but I can remember Ibou Konate at 2-2 with the chest half-a-yard in front of the goal and I'm still wondering how he couldn't score there.

'That was the team we faced, a super-strong team, that's what they are, and then you bring in (Declan) Rice and (Kai) Havertz and it doesn't make you worse. (David) Raya in goal doesn't make you worse.

'Mikel could build exactly the team he wants, they are difficult to play, they are a good mix between physicality – big, strong, fast players - good technique, very good organisation, really well coached, well drilled and you see every year they make another step.

'They really have my respect but we want the points anyway.'

Klopp added: 'We play a super-strong team, a team who played exceptional last season and coming back is even better than last season.

'Bringing in top players, had already a top team, bringing in really good players to improve the team - they did that - went through Champions League