'Six times happier!' - Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp reflects on 'horrible' start to 2023 with his Reds now top of the Premier League

The Reds were in the sixth position heading into 2023 after losing to Brentford and had not won a match until February 13th. They also went down twice to Brighton and even succumbed to a 3-0 loss at the hands of Wolves. However, Klopp has overseen a remarkable turnaround, with Liverpool becoming Premier League leaders and are on course to end 2023 in pole position if Arsenal do not win at Fulham on Sunday.

Speaking to reporters, Klopp said: "I am six times happier (than this time last year. It was a horrible time. We were sixth and then probably seventh or eighth. It feels better now. This team this season is in the middle of something and we just try to make the best of it."

Klopp has been handed a shot in the arm with Alexis Mac Allister back in training after picking up a knee injury on December 6. His return comes at a crucial time, especially with other midfielders like Wataru Endo departing for the Asia Cup. Moreover, Mohamed Salah will also leave Merseyside after the Newcastle clash as he will set sail for Ivory Coast for the Africa Cup of Nations. Diogo Jota has also returned to action and played a pivotal role in securing three points with a fine finish against Burnley on Boxing Day, which would further relieve Klopp heading into another January.

Salah could potentially miss a total of eight matches including an FA Cup third round tie against Arsenal at the Emirates.

Liverpool would be geared up to maintain their lead over Arsenal when they take on a beleaguered Newcastle side at Anfield on New Year's Day. After drawing against Manchester United and the Gunners, the Reds put up a professional performance against Burnley and Klopp would be urging his troops to carry that momentum into their first game of 2024.