Sunderland boss Gus Poyet has claimed that Liverpool would be a midtable club without the quality of Luis Suarez in their ranks.

The Uruguay international leads the race for the golden boot in the Premier League this season with 28 goals, while his striker partner Daniel Sturridge sits second with 19.

Nevertheless, Poyet, who takes the Black Cats to Anfield on Wednesday, believes that the prolific 27-year-old is carrying the Reds' title bid this season.

"I am not surprised, that's why they have got a chance. Without Suarez, they would probably be in midtable," he told Sky Sports News.

"It's not about how they play, how they defend, how they pass the ball, it's about having a player who is going to be voted the best player of the year by everybody, if we are honest."

Brendan Rodgers's men currently sit four points behind leaders Chelsea in the standings with one game in hand.

Tomorrow's encounter on Merseyside is scheduled to kick off at 8pm.