Louis Saha admits it is ‘painful’ to see Liverpool enjoying current hot spell

Former Manchester United forward Louis Saha has said that it is “painful” to see Liverpool performing well at the top of the Premier League.

Having missed out on their first league title in 29 years by a point last season, Jurgen Klopp’s side have gone again and currently sit eight points clear at the summit, having dropped no points in their first eight games.

The Reds face United at Old Trafford in arguably their toughest away trip of the season to date looking to continue that stellar run, a run which Saha admitted it has been tough for him to watch.

“It is painful, but the way that they are doing it is a joy to see,” the 41-year-old said. “If you all winning with dirty football you could say it, but I love football more than being a fan of any one team.

“When I see them play I’m sorry and it is painful to say, but it is a joy to watch because it is attacking football and they play with heart.

“It’s more than just about a region whether it’s Manchester or Liverpool. It is dedication, desire, they work hard, play attacking football and they want to communicate that with the fans.

“I enjoy it and I hope that Manchester United and Everton can replicate it, because that identity is there with Liverpool.”

United head into Sunday’s game in 12th in the table and without a win in four league outings, although that triumph did come at Old Trafford against Leicester City.

In other United news, Wednesday’s European papers claimed to have revealed the kind of salary Massimiliano Allegri could earn at the club should he take over if Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is sacked.