Ronald Koeman says Liverpool stronger this season despite Luis Suarez exit

Ronald Koeman feels Liverpool are stronger than last season despite Luis Suarez’s £75m departure to Barcelona.

Koeman is preparing for his first game in charge of the Saints, which comes against Brendan Rodgers' side at Anfield on Sunday.

Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers has splashed almost £50m on new talent, including Southampton trio Adam Lallana, Rickie Lambert and Dejan Lovren.

Koeman signed Shane Long and Florin Gardos on Thursday to replenish his squad following a summer exodus of high-profile players.

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He said: "Luis Suarez is a great player who scored a lot for them.

"But if you look through the Liverpool squad they have so many good football players. Liverpool is much stronger than last season.

"It's a great start for us to play away against Liverpool, we know it's a tough one but everybody starts on nil.

"The players know how to win at Anfield, We are ready to play."

Koeman insisted he is pleased with his current squad, adding: "Everybody has to show their qualities and ambitions and I believe we are very well prepared.

"I know what team will play on Sunday. I know everything, but I have to tell first to the players what we like to do."

Watch Liverpool and Southampton start their Premier League season live on Sky Sports 1 HD on Sunday - coverage starts at 12:30pm.