Liverpool 3-1 Southampton: Player ratings as Nunez & Salah star in comeback victory | OneFootball

Liverpool moved 16 points clear of title rivals Arsenal as they came from behind to beat last-placed Southampton 3-1 in the Premier League.

The Reds were expected to sweep the struggling Saints aside at Anfield but made life difficult for themselves as they entered the break behind. An almighty mix-up between Virgil van Dijk and midweek hero Alisson gifted Will Smallbone an open goal inside the penalty area, with the midfielder gladly accepting the invitation to give Southampton a shock lead.

But the Reds turned the encounter on its head within ten minutes of the restart. Darwin Nunez - who arguably could have been sent off during the first half for kicking out at Kyle Walker-Peters - dragged Liverpool into the lead, finishing Luis Diaz's excellent cross before winning a penalty for Mohamed Salah to convert.

Salah scored another spot kick in the dying embers as Liverpool extended their advantage to secure a hugely important victory in their bid to be crowned Premier League champions.

Liverpool player ratings (4-2-3-1)

Mohamed Salah scored twice for the Reds / Chris Brunskill/Fantasista/GettyImages

*Ratings provided by FotMob*

Subs not used: Caoimhin Kelleher (GK), Jarell Quansah, James McConnell, Federico Chiesa.

Southampton player ratings (4-4-2)

Will Smallbone was on target for the Saints / Chris Brunskill/Fantasista/GettyImages

*Ratings provided by FotMob*

Subs not used: Alex McCarthy (GK), Jack Stephens, Welington.