Liverpool boss gives rivals derby warning

Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers has warned Everton counterpart Roberto Martinez to expect a very different Reds side in their upcoming derby clash compared to the one that struggled against Aston Villa.

With Martinez looking on from the Anfield stands in preparation for the game at Goodison Park next Tuesday, Rodgers’ team were second best in the first half on Saturday against Villa.

Despite the lacklustre showing, ahead of the next league clash with their local rivals, Rodgers said: “He will know how I work and knows how my teams work

“But he will know it will be a totally different game here for the derby. It wasn’t one of our better days, but we’ve had many great games here.”

Rodgers, meanwhile, is being heavily linked with a move for Basle winger Mohamed Salah.

The Liverpool manager confirmed after Saturday’s game to meeting with owner John W Henry and chairman Tom Werner, apparently receiving assurances there is money available this month to strengthen his squad.

Salah has reportedly long been on Rodgers’ radar, and whilst a bid of £8 million is being suggested, Basle may demand double that figure as a number of clubs, including Newcastle, are showing interest.