Rafael Benitez remains a popular figure at Anfield but James Milner expects no favours when Liverpool host his Newcastle on Boxing Day.
James Milner believes Liverpool are better equipped to break down massed defensive ranks this season as they prepare to host Newcastle United at Anfield.
Jurgen Klopp's men remain unbeaten in the Premier League and lead champions Manchester City by four points at the summit heading into the Boxing Day clash against ex-Reds boss Rafael Benitez's side.
Newcastle's recent encounters with teams at the top end of the table suggest 90 minutes of dogged defence and calculated counter-attack, but Milner feels Liverpool's strength is that they have become more than just the attack-minded outfit who sought to blast teams away quickly last term.