LIVERPOOL boss Arne Slot insists Saints have been "unlucky" this season as he labels Russell Martin's side a "joy to watch" in analysis.
Dutch manager Slot brings his Premier League-leading Reds to St Mary's on Sunday with Saints sitting bottom of the division on just four points.
However, he insists he will not underestimate Saints after watching their matches ahead of the clash, despite winning 13 out of 14 games this season.
Liverpool take on Real Madrid and Man City in the Champions League and league next week but Slot demands focus from his team on beating Saints.
"We want to stay where we are and we have to keep bringing the results in, starting with Southampton on Sunday," said Slot.
"It is not going to be easy, although everyone will say they are bottom of the league at the moment they do not play like this at all.
"They have made it very difficult for the teams who are in the top three, top four or top five. Their playstyle is very intriguing and they were a joy to watch.
"They have a very interesting and nice way of playing so it's going to be a very difficult one after the international break, which is always an interesting time."
Slot added: "We have an incredible fixture run coming up, starting with Southampton and that is by far the most important game.
"It is best to go into the other games with a win so they have no impact on my team selection against Southampton at all.
"What does have an effect is the playing style of Southampton, the players coming back from South America and the injuries we have.
"Southampton can be much more than a capable team against us. I have seen them against Arsenal, Man City and against Wolves.
"Against Man United, they had a penalty first. They have been a bit unlucky in my opinion and could have had points in almost every game they played."
Slot confirmed that Reds goalkeeper Alisson will not be available to face Saints, while England defender Trent Alexander-Arnold is also a doubt.
Former Saint Virgil van Dijk has been passed fit for the match while Diogo Jota, Harvey Elliott and Federico Chiesa are ruled out.
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