Reaction'We've got quality and an attitude to stay at it in the squad'

Jürgen Klopp opted to make five changes for the St. James' Park encounter, which was settled by Naby Keita's goal in the 19th minute.

Gomez came into the XI and operated brilliantly at right-back, helping the Reds offensively and in recording their 21st clean sheet in the top flight this season.

Offering his reaction in the north east, the No.12 told Liverpoolfc.com: "We knew it wasn't going to be easy.

"It's a tough place to come, the atmosphere's unbelievable and obviously they're under new management and you can see they've definitely improved – their results show that.

"So we knew it wasn't going to be easy this afternoon and I think we ground out the result. It wasn't the easiest but we got the three points.

"I think the clean sheet always gives us the platform to get a goal and the three points. As a unit, we did well and ground it out."

On the quality Klopp has at his disposal, Gomez continued: "I think attitude amongst the camp to stay at it [as well] – I think there were five changes or so today.

"Obviously we've got a massive game in midweek and it's good to be able to allow some of the boys to come into that with fresh legs. It's only half-time over there, so we know it's not going to be easy.

"As a collective, all the lads staying fit this year and having such a strong squad has been massive for sure."

Keita was the match-winner with his cool run and finish after a neat one-two with Diogo Jota.

It was the No.8's fourth goal of the season as he produced a fine display to claim the Player of the Match award.

"That's Naby's ability and his ability to stay calm under pressure in that situation," Gomez said.

"I think our team's got so much quality in midfield and going forward, we know we're going to create chances.

"Obviously we didn't put away loads today but the main thing is we're creating. It was a great finish from Naby."