Liverpool desperate for league cup cheer

Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers has dismissed claims of dressing-room unrest as "totally untrue".

However, there appeared to be more to read into what Rodgers did not say rather than what he did, as he twice declined the opportunity to publicly back striker Mario Balotelli over criticism he has upset the equilibrium within the Reds’ squad.

Former Liverpool midfielder Paul Ince called for Rodgers to sell the Italian as he believes he is a disruptive influence and is partly responsible for the lack of team spirit.