Adam Lallana issues perfect response to Jurgen Klopp's 'Liverpool legend' compliment

Brighton midfielder Adam Lallana has made a positive impact on the south coast

Lallana played back to back 90 minutes in the Premier League for Brighton just before the international break and the 32-year-old midfielder is now preparing himself for Aston Villa this Saturday.

The former Liverpool player was man of the match during Brighton's frustrating stalemate against Burnley and it was probably his best display since joining Albion on a free transfer last summer.

Graham Potter has been careful not to rush Lallana when he first arrived and their were major concerns when he hobbled off in his first match against Chelsea with cramp.

He has had tough moments throughout his career with injuries but a determination to play at the highest level and his dedication to training has so far enabled him to fight back.

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp hailed him as 'one of the most influential players I've ever had in my life on the training field,' and said he was a Liverpool 'legend' when he exited Anfield and signed a three-year deal with Albion.

“It's a great compliment, but I am not comfortable talking about myself and using that word, there are far more legends associated with that football club," Lallana said.

“We had such a strong squad at Liverpool and a really tight core – I was a big part in Jurgen's five years at the club.

“It was nice to be part of that environment and see the journey he took the club on to win the league.”

Lallana was signed by Brighton not only for his ability on the pitch but also to help teach the emerging younger players good habits.

The Premier League and Champions League winner has already been a positive influence on group and the likes of Steven Alzate, Aaron Connolly and Alexis Mac Allister will no doubt learn from working with Lallana on a daily basis.

“I have always tried to train well every day," he added. "I remember Mauricio Pochettino saying that he had to drag us off the training pitches at Southampton, but then he would have to drag us back on again!

“Recently it has been more important than ever for me to train as well as I could when I wasn't playing.

“I was having an influence on the young lads coming through and training hard was part of that.

"What's the other option, to not train hard? I don't ever see that as an option."