Sunderland striker Jermain Defoe has revealed what Jurgen Klopp first asked his staff, when the German agreed to takeover as manager at Anfield.
Defoe lined up for Sunderland against Liverpool on Saturday afternoon. The match ended 2-0 to the Reds, with Divock Origi and James Milner grabbing two late goals which means that Klopp's side remain just one point behind league leaders Chelsea.
FULL-TIME Liverpool 2-0 Sunderland. Divock Origi and James Milner score as the Reds move to the top of the #PL #LIVSUN pic.twitter.com/gb3CvhS5kx
Liverpool have surprised many with their form this season and have emerged as genuine title contenders, after keeping pace with the likes of Manchester City and Chelsea at the top of the Premier League.
The team's work rate has been the cornerstone for Liverpool's success and Jermain Defoe revealed to Sky Sports that fitness was Jurgen Klopp's number one priority when he first arrived at Anfield.
.@IAmJermainDefoe joins Ben & Kammy on Sunday from 9.30am on SS1. But what's his best PL goal? Watch & vote here: https://t.co/bojgPWdT6l pic.twitter.com/rgM6lSQpQp
Speaking to Goals on Sunday (as quoted by theStar), the Black Cats strikersaid:"Apparently when Klopp went in, I think the first question he asked the staff was, 'Who's the fittest player at the club?'
"I think they said Lallana.
"I think what he wanted to do was to get everyone at that level and that's the first question he asked, nothing about the football.
"I think he just wanted to get everyone at that level."
Adam Lallana missed Liverpool's 2-0 win over Sunderland with a groin problem but has been a regular in the starting lineup this season, after rediscovering the fineform he showed when playing at Southampton.
Whilst it has so far proven successful, many have questioned Jurgen Klopp's tactics and insistence on playing with high intensity, with some fearing it may lead to burnout later on this season.
That theory could well be put to the test over the busy Christmas period, as Liverpool are set to play five league matches in just 20 days, starting with a home match with West Ham United on 11th December.
Liverpool in all competitions since losing to Burnley:
WDWWWWWDWWWWDW
Goals scored: 38
Conceded: 10
Top of the Klopps. pic.twitter.com/hOkyC0RHwk