Raheem Sterling scored his tenth goal of the season as Liverpool came away with a 2-0 victory over Southampton at St. Mary's.
Brazilian midfielder Philippe Coutinho's third-minute wonder strike gave England keeper Fraser Forster no chance as the Reds went in front.
The powerful, long-range drive found the top corner of the net after beating Forster's dive and cannoning in off the underside of the crossbar.
Adam Lallana takes on his former team-mate James Ward-Prowse
But despite dominating possession for large periods, Southampton failed to capitalise with the visitors holding firm.
Then Three Lions forward Sterling delivered the decisive blow for the Reds with 17 minutes left as they moved up to sixth in the Premier League, a point behind the Saints.
Alberto Moreno broke down the left and crossed after Morgan Schneiderlin had lost possession, and England youngster Matt Targett slipped as he tried to clear the ball in the wet conditions. It fell kindly for Sterling who drove past his international team-mate in the Saints goal.
No fewer than ten England players were in action on the south coast as both sides started with four each.
England youngsters Jordon Ibe and Matt Targett
As well as Forster and Targett, Ronald Koeman also had James Ward-Prowse and Nathaniel Clyne in his line-up, while Harrison Reed was an unused substitute.
For Liverpool, Brendan Rodgers had Jordan Henderson, who was wearing the captain's armband in the absence of Steven Gerrard, Jordon Ibe and former Saint Adam Lallana in alongside Sterling.
Daniel Sturridge came on for the last half an hour as he continues his return from injury, as Glen Johnson replaced Ibe with 15 minutes left for his first Premier League appearance since 14 December.
Another of Liverpool's summer signings from Southampton, Rickie Lambert, was also on the bench but did not get a chance to play in front of his old club's fans.
