“I think they are an outstanding team, a fantastic team, you can see the work rate they put in,” he said.

“Bitter? I am never bitter, but I know how good he (Watkins) can be and I think he is a very good striker."

The Netherlands international has had a key role to play in a summer of upheaval at Anfield after the departure of long-time manager Jurgen Klopp.

The influential centre-back has been out for seven months after undergoing surgery on a cruciate ligament in his right knee