Chris Hughton watched his Brighton side blown away by Liverpool and then declared: “they are as good as Manchester City.”

The Reds romped to a 5-1 win at the Amex Stadium despite fielding a team decimated by injuries in defence.

Emre Can's header, a brace from Roberto Firmino, Philippe Coutinho's free-kick and a Lewis Dunk own goal did the damage for Jurgen Klopp's side.

And an admiring Hughton believes only runaway leaders City can compare to Liverpool 's devastating attack in the Premier League.

“They are the best team we have played this season,” said the Brighton boss, whose team were beaten 2-0 by City at home on the opening weekend.

“Offensively, they are right up there with Man City because of the pace they can attack with.

“You have to be guarded against that. That becomes your biggest priority, to nullify their strengths.

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“For the third goal we've had arguably the best chance of the game and less than a minute later they are at the other end scoring.

“You have to have a level of performance to have a chance in the game and to play well.

"They were very good and give us a harsh lesson but we were also well below the levels we have been this season.”

Hughton had specific praise for man of the match Philippe Coutinho , who had a hand in all five of Liverpool's goals.

(Image: Photo by Andrew Powell/Liverpool FC via Getty Images)

“He is what he is,” he said. “If he's having a good day, he's a world-class player.

“We are all aware of what was reported during the last transfer window, and this (performance) is the reason why. He is a world class player.”

Hughton also discussed Coutinho's free-kick goal, which saw him hit the ball under the jumping Brighton wall.

“The moment you don't jump, Coutinho puts it in the top corner!” he said.