Rodgers defiant after Real gamble

Champions League Group B

Brendan Rodgers stood by his selection gamble as predictions of a rout proved to be well wide the mark after Liverpool’s weakened side produced a disciplined if not ultimately successful performance at the Bernabeu.

Rodgers’ gamble of leaving captain Steven Gerrard, vice-skipper Jordan Henderson and Raheem Sterling, among others, on the bench ahaed of saturday’s Premier League clash with leaders Chelsea was considered bold by some and foolish by others. The manager received criticism prior to kick-off for his selection, but he said on ITV: “I knew what I was doing.