EDDIE Howe admitted he had words with Asmir Begovic after the goalkeeper blasted Liverpool’s defensive capability.

Begovic criticised Jurgen Klopp’s men as part of the panel on The Debate, a show aired on Sky Sports.

Asked about the Reds while on the programme in October, the Bosnian stopper said: “They are not doing the basics of defending and I don't think they have the pride it takes to be a defender.

"They don't look organised, they don't look like they want to defend.

"I don't think it is one particular player or one particular thing but everything in that defensive area is going wrong. I'm not sure how much time they spend on it or if they're being coached.”

Begovic is expected to line up against the Merseysiders when the teams do battle at Vitality Stadium on Sunday (4.30pm).

Howe said: “Asmir and I did speak about it.

“I think that was the right thing to do from my perspective, just to say to all my squad I don’t think we should be airing our views on opponents, certainly not before games and possibly not even after.

“From a players’ perspective, I don’t think you ever want to see anyone say anything negative towards any other team in the Premier League.

“We are all competing and all trying to do the same thing and I think it is very important we all show respect for each other.

“I think Asmir was put in a situation in which he was on a programme where he was asked his opinion and every person has the right to give their opinion.”

Asked whether he agreed with Begovic’s views, Howe replied: “Personally, no. That is my opinion.

“Everyone has an opinion and they have the right to say what they wish.

“My initial opinion would be that we have to get our own house in order first before you ever comment on other people.”