Dirk Kuyt has said that he is not surprised by the recent criticism of Liverpool.

The Dutch striker, whose side make the trip to Newcastle United this afternoon, has said that the club must turn their recent run of form around after losing four of their last five Premier League matches.

"It doesn't surprise me that we've had criticism," he told the Liverpool Echo. "We must put together a good run.

"Newcastle have had a great season, done well and have picked up a lot of points.

"Credit to them but at the moment we have to look at ourselves. I think we are a better team than them. We have to make sure we get three points against them."

The Reds can move within five points of Newcastle with a win at the Sports Direct Arena.