Friendships are put to one side when club loyalties are involved, and Jordan Henderson's relationship with Danny Ings is no different.
The pair were former teammates during Ings' spell at Liverpool from 2015, before his loan and subsequent transfer to Southampton.
And the two will come face to face on Saturday as Liverpool host Southampton at Anfield.
But despite their ongoing friendship, Reds captain Henderson is understandably keen for in-form Ings to have a rare off day.
“What can I say about Danny Ings? Well, firstly I hope he has a stinker today," Henderson wrote in his official programme notes, before adding: "but I know it’s highly unlikely."
Ings' career didn't quite take off at Liverpool after suffering a serious knee injury.
But the forward has been in sensational scoring form for the Saints this season, netting 14 times in the Premier League.
Henderson goes on to describe his old colleague as "one of the most dangerous centre-forwards" in the top flight, and highlighted Ings' attitude and professionalism behind the 27-year-old's success.
He then added: "I go back to what I said right at the beginning and I hope after the match today I’m telling him ‘hard luck’. But we’ll also be telling him that we’re all made up to see him doing what he does best."
Liverpool go into the clash 19 points clear at the top of the table, while a recent upturn in results has propelled Southampton into ninth.
The Saints could even force their way into the top five with a win, although former Liverpool striker Michael Owen feels a first league defeat in almost three years at Anfield is unlikely.
Owen told Bet Victor: "The Saints have won 69% of their points on the road so far this season (20 of 31) and Ralph Hasenhuttl’s side will provide Liverpool with another stiff test of their title credentials – but I think the Reds will take another step forward as they chase their first Premier League crown."
