Liverpool needed a Hugo Lloris error to beat Tottenham Hotspur 2-1 last time out and it rode its luck again at St. Mary's Stadium, Jurgen Klopp's side showing its nerves.

Shane Long's 50th Premier League goal had put Southampton into an early lead but Naby Keita's first strike for Liverpool ensured the scores were level at the interval.

Salah's dry spell has been well-documented but he ended his eight-game wait for a goal in the 80th minute, embarking on a long solo run before finishing superbly.

Reds captain Jordan Henderson then made sure of the win with four minutes to go by turning home a Roberto Firmino low cross, as Liverpool went two points clear at the top, albeit having played a game more than City.