With Liverpool about to re-enter the Champions League for the first time since 2009 when they face Bulgarian side PFC Ludogrets at Anfield on Tuesday, Reds boss Brendan Rodgers believes that his side will be able to cope with the physical demands that come along with such a busy schedule.
The Merseyside outfit brought in nine new signings over the summer in attempt to not only bolster their numbers, but the depth of quality at their disposal — something the Northern Irishman has identified as key to building on last years successful league showing. “It’s very important to be able to rotate, but also to maintain the consistency from the team and I think the best sides are able do that,” he said ahead of tomorrow’s meeting with Aston Villa. “There will be changes in games, but there won’t be wholesale changes because as I’ve said, you still need that core group of players to get you through. We’ve planned the teams out for the next five games all the way through to Everton, but of course you have to allow for injuries and such.”
The international break was not kind to Liverpool with Daniel Sturridge picking up a thigh injury in England training that will keep him sidelined for up to three weeks, Emre Can hurting his ankle to the tune of six weeks on the treatment table and Joe Allen returning to Melwood with a knee problem that could see him miss out on tomorrow’s meeting with the Villains. Despite the selection headache he’s currently facing, having the ability to hand both Mario Baltotelli and Adam Lallana their home debuts comes as a serious bonus for the Liverpool manager — as will having a well rested Steven Gerrard at his disposal.
“In 14 years, it was his first international break after giving his country everything, so it was good for him to have that breather and I’m sure he enjoyed it,” enthused Rodgers after Gerrard, who decided to retire from England duty following the World Cup, got some well deserved rest and relaxation. “I also gave him an extra few days off to recover, knowing that we’ve got a hectic schedule coming up over the next couple of months. Steven looks after himself ever so well, he’s a great professional. He’s coming back this week refreshed and has looked very good.”
