League Rodgers’ main priority
The Reds have had their worst start to a campaign in 100 years with just two points from their opening four matches and it does not get any easier with arch-rivals Manchester United heading to Anfield on Sunday.
As a result captain Steven Gerrard, Luis Suarez, Jose Reina, Glen Johnson, Martin Skrtel, Daniel Agger, Joe Allen and Martin Kelly have all been left behind for tonight’s Europa League clash with Swiss side Young Boys.
It means the likes of Samed Yesil, Suso, Andre Wisdom, Conor Coady, Adam Morgan, Jack Robinson and Dani Pacheco have all been included in the Europa League squad — which has an average age of just 21 and includes seven teenagers.
“I can understand why people would perceive us as not taking it seriously but I will always do what is in the best interests of the football club,” said Rodgers.
“There is no doubt the Premier League is our number one priority, I’ve made that clear from the off with the position with our squad.
“I look at Real Madrid v Manchester City and Samir Nasri came off with an injury but they have a massive squad who can accommodate that.
“If I lose some of my key players that can make it very difficult for us for the next two or three months.
“I am fully aware that when you pull on a Liverpool shirt you are expected to win the games so I’ve brought a team I believe can win the game.”
Young Boys coach Martin Rueda believes Rodgers has taken a risk in bringing an under-strength squad to Switzerland.
“I do not think Liverpool can afford to turn up without their best players,” he said. “Especially since they did not shine in the early season, taking just two points from their first four games.
“That makes me say that we are not far from them. We can embarrass Liverpool.”
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