Dalglish sticking to same formula

The Reds have won six matches on the road this season - two more than they have at home - but while they have been held at Anfield on eight occasions they have managed just one draw on enemy territory. Such statistics, on the face of it, could point to a more open approach away from home but Dalglish does not believe that is the case.

"A lot of performances at home have been of a high quality and haven't got the result they deserved but away from home we have got better results but maybe not been as attractive," said the Scot.

"We don't change too much wherever we play. We always want to win the game and we'll always put a team out we think is going to win. We want to win both places, home and away, and we have the capabilities to do so."

On Saturday seventh-placed Liverpool face Sunderland at the Stadium of Light, where the Black Cats have lost just once in the Barclays Premier League since Martin O'Neill took over in early December.

Dalglish recognises the impact O'Neill has had, even if they have taken only a point from their last three matches, without the need for drastic changes to his squad.

"It was a surprise to see Steve Bruce get the sack but obviously results were not impressive and it puts everyone under pressure," said the Reds boss.

"They have had a great turnaround. There are not that many players who have come in to change it so obviously they are playing with greater commitment and are playing much better now.

"The results give them confidence and belief which they didn't have beforehand.

"They've done very well since he went in there and made themselves very difficult to beat. It is going to be a difficult task for us but I've never been up there and it has been easy so it won't be much change for us."

Source: PA