Rodgers: Agger is an important part of the squad

Brendan Rodgers has described Daniel Agger as an important member of his Liverpool squad.

There have been reports that the Reds are looking to sell the Dane as Rodgers addresses the defensive frailties that cost his side the Premier League title last season.

Agger took over from Jamie Carragher as vice-captain following the latter’s retirement but he endured a stop-start 2013-14 campaign.

The 29-year-old wore the armband on Wednesday evening during Liverpool’s 2-1 defeat by his former club Brondby in a pre-season friendly.

Rodgers said on liverpoolfc.com: “Daniel is one of a number of excellent players that we have playing at the back. He has been unfortunate in the time that I’ve been at the club because the big issue for Dan has been his availability.

“He has been out injured for a number of games. He’s an excellent player, an international captain and he’s had a very good career at Liverpool.

“He’s at a good age, 29, and his experience can be good for us this season. He signed a new contract last season.

“You saw in the first half (against Brondby) that he’s an excellent player, a very good footballer and someone that is an important member of our squad.”