Mohamed Salah sets a new record for Liverpool in the resumption against Southampton

Mohamed Salah reached a new record for Liverpool after scoring a crucial second-half goal in the return win at Southampton.

The Egyptian international sprinted from his side to find the back of the net during the Premier League match on Friday against the Saints threatened with relegation.

Salah had been stuck on 49 league goals for the club after failing in his previous six games.

However, his beautiful shot at St Mary's allowed him to reach his half-century in his 69th match, a new Liverpool record.

The former Chelsea winger achieved the feat three games earlier than former record holder Fernando Torres, who scored the same number of goals in 72 games.

Luis Suarez, another Anfield hero, has played 86 league games to reach his half-century. Robbie Fowler, fourth on the list, was successful in 88 games.

Salah, who scored his first goal in nine games, told Sky Sports: "I think it's the number 50 goal for Liverpool in the Premier League, so it's special.

"I am very happy to score a goal and help the team, it is the most important thing for us."

Defender Van Dijk said: "You know that there are not many matches left, any mistakes could cost us dear.We wanted to win this match, regardless of the circumstances and I think that in the second period we insisted and continued.

"I do not think they had any luck in the second half, with the exception of a few corners and stopped plays, but it was a well-deserved win."

Substitute Jordan Henderson scored a third goal to seal the win after Naby Keita's first goal in English football canceled Shane Long's opener for fit hosts.

And the skipper stressed the importance of the remaining matches in the Premier League race.

Speaking after Liverpool's win, Henderson told Sky Sports: "We know every game is huge for us.

"We know we have to win every game, so tonight was another great match.

"I thought the guys were showing a lot of character in the first period under a little pressure, to get out and go 1-1 at halftime, I thought it was good for us."