Liverpool striker Rickie Lambert has admitted that he is relishing this weekend's visit to former club Southampton.

The forward is expecting a good reception >at St Mary's Stadium, but is unsure whether fellow ex-Saints Adam Lallana and Dejan Lovren will be given the same treatment.

Lambert left Southampton on good terms with the club's supporters, while Lallana and Lovren are regarded by some as deserters.

"I'm not too sure about Adam's and Dejan's reception," Lambert told reporters. "We loved our time there. I've got nothing but appreciation and love for the Southampton fans.

"The relationship I had with them was amazing and that's something that will stay with me after I retire.

"That will be one of the best memories I have as a footballer so I am looking forward to going back and it will be nice to see them."

Four points separate the teams ahead of kickoff, with Southampton fifth and Liverpool seventh in the Premier League table.