Jurgen Klopp has spoken about his admiration for former Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez.
The Reds will be reunited with the Spaniard when they travel to face Newcastle United at St James' Park in the Premier League on Sunday.
Benitez, who is unbeaten in the four games he has managed against Liverpool, is guaranteed a warm reception from the travelling Kop.
Klopp said: “I met Rafa once when he was manager of Liverpool, we beat him 5-0 with Mainz! Hopefully he remembers that!
“The rest is history. The big success. We met for sure about 10, 15 times in different locations and it was always really nice with him. He's a very interesting person.
“He's still connected. Not only because he still lives around here but he's really connected to the club still. He wishes it all the best and that's how it should be after the fantastic time he had here.
“Even in pre-season, we had talks. I know him better than most of my other colleagues in the Premier League.”
“I had the opportunity to watch their game against Brighton,” Klopp added.
“They are a good team, well organised and were unlucky with the goal.”