Daniel Farke was delighted his side were able to keep a clean sheet and, in doing so, earn an important point on the road against Premier League champions Liverpool.

The Whites were good value for the draw, extending the unbeaten run to six matches to start the New Year on a high, leaving the boss thrilled his squad were able to continue their momentum.

“It was always clear that we, as a newly promoted side, would need a special performance today to travel away with points,” the German told the media.

“Especially on New Year’s Day, it is always a special atmosphere and then to travel also without several key players and to show such a performance, also such a resilience and well-organised structure against the ball.

“It was always clear that there would be many periods during the game where we had to suffer and have to defend really, really well and Liverpool would have more possession.

“But we didn’t allow them really clear-cut chances, more or less in errors and they couldn’t hurt us that much. We had also our periods in the game especially the beginning of the game.

“We needed a really balanced performance today and for that then to return back with a point. I think also in the end for us also well deserved clean sheet is not just good for the table but also good for the mood in the dressing room, good for the confidence.

“Also many fringe players today involved also yes, delighted for them because I was not surprised about their performance.

“I work with these lads each and every day and I see what they are doing in training. Players like Sebastiaan Bornauw or James Justin, so it is more or less I was convinced that they have a chance to show such a good performance.

“Also a period, four Premier League fixtures within 10 days, and I backed my whole group, I backed my whole squad.

“It was another proof today that we need each and every player and each and every teammate to chip in and to show further on this unity, this togetherness.”