Liverpool went on to win consecutive Premier League ties after they edged past Sunderland 1-0 on Wednesday night. Jurgen Klopp went on to keep expectations realistic for the Anfield faithful’s by playing down Liverpool’s chance of winning the title this season.

"No, I don't know [if we are title contenders]," Klopp said, according to Sky Sports on being asked about Liverpool’s title expectations.

Christian Benteke’s quick strike, just 22-seconds into the second half gave Sunderland their fifth straight defeat of the campaign and took Liverpool to seventh in the league table, leveling points with Manchester United.

Benteke could have added another goal to his name but Vito Mannone of Sunderland thought otherwise, while Roberto Firmino struck the post for The Reds in the first half.

Sunderland had to work hard for their chances and their striker, ex-Liverpool forward Fabio Borini got the closest to scoring when his shot narrowly missed goal in the 33rd minute.

Sunderland currently lies 19th in the table, ending the year seven points away from safety.

Liverpool beat Leicester City on Boxing Day and Jurgen Klopp made only one change to that squad, replacing Divock Origi with Benteke, who also scored the winner against the Foxes while, Sunderland made four changes to the team that lost 4-1 to Manchester City on Dec 26, 2015.

The Black Cats were determined to avoid defeat and that showed from the start of the match as they kept their visitors at bay with tactical defending. Sunderland had the first chance of the match when Jermain Defoe, who replaced Steven Fletcher forced Simon Mignolet to tip over a deadly shot on goal.

Firmino had the best chance for Liverpool in the first half, when his shot was tipped onto the post by Mannone and then his header saved.

After taking the lead in the second half, Liverpool’s grip on the game loosened as they gave away possession cheaply. This added to Klopp’s frustration and was clearly visible from his theatrics on the sideline.

Liverpool could have had another goal added to the scoreboard, however, Jordon Ibe and Benteke failed to convert their chances.

"Two goals, six points and two clean sheets is really good for us. It's well deserved.” Klopp said at the end of the match.

Liverpool next face West Ham away from home on Jan. 2, 2016.

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