Liverpool got back to winning ways in the Premier League on Wednesday by easily dispatching Middlesbrough 3-0 at the Riverside Stadium.

A brace from Adam Lallana and a Divock Origi strike secured all three points for Jurgen Klopp’s men, who desperately needed the points after drawing at home to West Ham and losing at Bournemouth in the last two games.

The result means that they leapfrog Arsenal into second, and will now go into the Merseyside derby against Everton on Monday with renewed confidence after a testing few weeks.

Nonetheless, the Reds looked back to their best in the North West on Wednesday in securing their tenth league win of the campaign, but they trail leaders Chelsea by six points following their victory over Sunderland.

Klopp’s men are a point clear of Manchester City in fourth and four ahead of Tottenham in fifth, so they are looking good for at least a top four finish, but some Liverpool fans have set their sights on the title after an excellent campaign thus far.

However, some still feel that Liverpool will come up short this season unless Klopp strengthens his side in January and, with the African Cup of Nations taking place next month, the Reds boss may be tempted by some of Africa’s most talented individuals.

Thus, here are 2 AFCON stars for Liverpool to watch out for in January…

Cedric Bakambu

With the future of Daniel Sturridge uncertain, Klopp may consider bringing in another forward ready for the second half of the season.

One man who could keep tabs on during the African Cup of Nations is DR Congo forward Cedric Bakambu.

The 25-year-old moved to Spanish side Villarreal last year, and scored 22 goals in his first season in Spain, 12 of which inspired them to fourth place in La Liga, and thus qualification for this season’s Champions League.

Although he hasn’t hit the heights so far this season, netting twice in eight league games, Bakambu is clearly a talented forward who has an eye for goal, and would certainly provide Klopp with another attacking option at Anfield.

Franck Kessie

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y5Oyepz6lhU

One of the most in demand players in Europe is Atalanta midfielder Franck Kessie.

The 19-year-old has shone in his first season in Serie A, netting five times and laying on one assist for the Italian side, who currently sit sixth in the top-flight.

Unsurprisingly, many top European clubs are keeping an eye on the Ivorian international, with the likes of Chelsea, Arsenal, and Liverpool set to do battle with Juventus for the youngster’s signature.

Recent reports suggest that Juve are the favourites to land Kessie, yet all three Premier League clubs have the financial power to lure the 19-year-old to England.

Thus, Klopp should try and get a deal done for a young player who could be a serious star for many years to come.