QPR in Cole talks - Report

The former England international, who earns a reported 90,000 a week, is expected to leave Anfield in January as he does not feature in Brendan Rodgers' long-term plans.

According to Sky sources, QPR manager Harry Redknapp hopes to take advantage and lure Cole to Loftus Road to help in their fight against Premier League relegation.

The playmaker was not a member of Liverpool's squad in Sunday's comfortable win at QPR, which ensured the London club stayed bottom of the table.

And Cole's absence has only increased speculation he will be on the move when the transfer window opens next week.

Brendan Rodgers admits he must give Luis Suarez the hope of playing Champions League football with Liverpool

The Reds are some way off the pace this season as the Liverpool boss continues the rebuilding process at Anfield and it is debatable how long Suarez will wait for success.

Asked if he risks losing his best player if he fails to demonstrate that Liverpool can be a top-four team again, Rodgers told the Mail on Sunday: "That is something that you can never tell.

"The players need to feel there is hope.

"I don't want people who don't want to be here, but top players like Steven Gerrard, Daniel Agger and Luis Suarez have all committed to the cause.

"They obviously feel there is hope that the model will work.

'The reality is we're a team that haven't been challenging for the last number of years and it is going to need that wee bit of time.

"I believe we are going down the right route because, if you're not going to invest as heavily, you have to build."

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Rodgers misses QPR clash

Back-up goalkeeper Brad Jones and head of performance Glen Driscoll, have also been sent home by the club's medical team.

Assistant manager Colin Pascoe and coach Mike Marsh will deputise at Loftus Road.

The trio were sent home suffering from a bug after club doctor Zaf Iqbal said if they remained there was a risk of infecting other members of the squad.

"It was impossible for Brendan, Glen and Brad to attend the game," he told the club's website.

"They are not fit to be at the match and any contact with the rest if the squad could cause the bug to spread to more of the playing staff."

Brendan Rodgers urges players to start showing Liverpool's hunger for success

The Reds slipped to a 3-1 defeat at Stoke on Boxing Day and Rodgers admits he is growing frustrated with his side's inability to produce consistent form in the Premier League.

Rodgers accepts he cannot ship out his under-performing stars next month, but he will drop players who fail to show the winning mentality which he feels is central to the club.

Speaking ahead of Sunday's game at QPR, he told the Daily Telegraph: "It's not easily solved.

"It's not like other sports where you can just tell someone 'that's it' and show them the door and they're gone. This is a club that pays big money.

"I'm not saying that about anyone in particular, but it takes that bit of time.

"To play for a club like this there are certain requirements you need. They are not just technical and tactical requirements. You can't have a good match for Liverpool and then three days later have a poor game. This is Liverpool. This is every game of your life .

"You play well on Saturday and then you have to play well in the next game. Then three days later you have to be at the top of your game again. You have to do that for years because that's why you are at a big club. The table doesn't lie. We are in 10th position."

Rodgers believes his team have proved they can hold their own with the big guns in the Premier League and hopes they can climb the table with a winning run.

"We've shown against many of the top teams that we have the game to compete. Against some of the other teams we have shown wonderful demonstrations," he said.

"But it has to be efficient and consistent. That's the single biggest word. We have boys that want to come in and work every day, but it has to be consistent."

Rodgers to be patient with youth

The Reds boss criticised his players for not showing enough steel in the 3-1 Boxing Day defeat at Stoke.

However, he excused the likes of Suso and Jonjo Shelvey, who both started at the Britannia Stadium, and substitutes Raheem Sterling and Jordan Henderson.

"If you have a lot of experienced players they have that experience which carries them through," he said.

"But we have a lot of young players in the group and what everyone will tell you is with young players you get inconsistency.

"That has been the highlight for me in terms of the area we need to improve on.

"But the only way they get that experience is by throwing them in and sending them out there.

"Suso will have benefited from 45 minutes away at Stoke. He'll be a better player for it and that will help us going forward.

"I can't be critical of the young players, it is something that is natural at a football club and as a manager I expect it.

"That is s omething you have to deal with and grow from.

"Our young players will become better players, but what we need to ensure is that we can improve both senior and youth players.

"But it is also about the types of characters in the group, because if you have the right characters then you can have more efficiency on a regular basis and that is what we are striving for.

"We just have to keep moving on, look to learn where you can from the game and you go into the next game with renewed desire."

Despite the defeat at Stoke prompting more unwelcome headlines for the club, Rodgers is adamant the current situation can be rectified with a couple of wins.

They head to struggling QPR tomorrow and then host Sunderland on Wednesday and six points would help put things back on track.

"We've got two good games coming up and if we can win both of them that will be three wins out of our four matches over the Christmas period and it's all quite nice agai n," he added.

"But it is all about the QPR game and having that killer instinct."

Defeat at Stoke has left Rodgers with the same league record as the maligned Roy Hodgson, 25 points from 19 matches.

While Hodgson did not make it past 20 league matches before he was sacked Rodgers is under no such pressure, especially as he has the supporters on his side for the time being.

"My message to the fans is just stay with us and keep that courage they have shown all season," he added.

"Their support throughout this period has been incredible and it can't be easy for them after what this club has won over many years.

"This is a different era and a different operation in terms of where the club is at.

"What we hope to do, because we don't have the big finances to splash out like other clubs, is go about a process which gets you back there rather than something instant.

"The fans can't do any more, it is up to the players and us a s a club to carry on giving them something to cheer on the field."

Liverpool head to struggling QPR tomorrow looking to bounce back immediately, although Rodgers admits it will not be an easy ride.

"In Harry (Redknapp) they've got no greater man to go in there and rescue them from where they're at," he said.

"He went into Tottenham in a situation that was difficult and did a brilliant job over a number of years there.

"He's gone in, he knows what he wants and I'm sure January probably can't come quickly enough for him.

"We understand it will be a difficult game, but we're really focused on this period of games because we know it's important for us.

"We had a terrific result and performance against Fulham. We were disappointing the other night, but you've got to bounce back and that's what we'll look to do at the weekend.

"It's the type of league where somebody sitting at the bottom of the table isn't going to be an easy game.< /p>

"It'll be a tough match for us, but our focus is on our own game - and we know if we can bring our 'A Game' into most games then we've got a great chance of winning."

QPR v Liverpool preview

Goalkeeper Julio Cesar (back), full-back Nedum Onuoha (hamstring) and midfielder Park Ji-sung (knee) are also doubts.

Strikers Andrew Johnson (knee) and Bobby Zamora (hip) are sidelined with long-term injuries.

Liverpool are sweating on the fitness of top scorer Luis Suarez for the trip to Loftus Road.

Reds boss Brendan Rodgers says the Uruguayan striker has been hampered by an ankle injury in recent weeks and could be forced out of the clash.

Former QPR youngster Raheem Sterling is pushing for a start.QPR defender Ryan Nelsen is a doubt for Sunday's clash because of a virus.

Goalkeeper Julio Cesar (back), full-back Nedum Onuoha (hamstring) and midfielder Park Ji-sung (knee) are also doubts.

Strikers Andrew Johnson (knee) and Bobby Zamora (hip) are sidelined with long-term injuries.Liverpool are sweating on the fitness of top scorer Luis Suarez for the trip to Loftus Road.

Reds boss Brendan Rodgers says the Uruguayan s triker has been hampered by an ankle injury in recent weeks and could be forced out of the clash.

Former QPR youngster Raheem Sterling is pushing for a start.

Rodgers won't spend big money

Rodgers does not have a great deal of cash at his disposal, but a deal has been virtually agreed for Chelsea forward Daniel Sturridge, while the pursuit of Blackpool winger Tom Ince continues.

But aside from that pair it seems unlikely there will be many more additions because of budgetary restraints.

Rodgers admits next season "the purse strings will be loosened" on the back of the influx of money from a new television deal but for now he is trying to make the best of his situation.

"We won't be overly busy in January but some reinforcements will be nice, just the addition of some firepower to help us at the top end of the field," he said.

"There won't be a great deal of business done, we are probably just trying to get some of the business done which we hoped to do in the summer.

"The budget was going to be tight this year, for a number of reasons, but we will be doing something because it is the need of the group.

"From ne xt season the purse strings should loosen a bit more but in terms of this season it was always on the understanding it was going to be tight in terms of finance."

Rodgers has said he does not see much value or opportunity in the January window but he knows he must freshen up his squad and that is why he is trying to get his deals done early.

Having seen a move for Fulham's Clint Dempsey flounder over finances on deadline day in August, Rodgers is trying to correct the situation which left him with only one senior striker in Luis Suarez for four months.

Rodgers has always maintained he wants to bring a certain type of player to Anfield and he does not think he will have many options available to him in January.

But he needs a successful window in order to keep the critics at bay as defeat at Stoke on Boxing DAy left him with the same record as much-maligned former boss Roy Hodgson, having taken just 25 points from 19 league matches.

Hodgson lasted just one more game before getting the sack and, while no-one is suggesting there is a risk of Rodgers heading the same way, continual comparisons with that previous regime are not complimentary.

"We had hoped to do some business at the back end of August and we weren't able to do that," said the Northern Irishman.

"The addition of a few faces in January can freshen up the group and allow us to kick on.

"But it is all very well having absolute millions to spend if there is not the availability of players.

"It is not always about the finance and the affordability of the player, it is about the availability and if it's not the right availability I won't spend money just for the sake of it.

"Every manager would want to get them in as early as you possibly can and we have to give ourselves every chance.

"If we can get them in at the beginning, great, but if there is something which pops up at the end of the window we can look at it ."

Owen targets goal against Reds

Stoke striker Michael Owen has plenty of happy memories from his time at Liverpool, but does not look back too fondly on the occasions he has played against them.

The former England international enjoyed the most prolific days of his career at Liverpool, where he came through the youth ranks.

Since leaving the Reds in 2004 though, he has failed to score a single goal against them and Owen admits he has rarely had much fun when being on the opposing team.

The 33-year-old will be hoping the trend changes on Boxing Day when the Potters host Liverpool in the Barclays Premier League, a game in which he could make his first Stoke appearance since October 27 having overcome a hamstring problem.

Owen - who departed Anfield for Real Madrid and moved on to Newcastle and Manchester United before joining Stoke this season - told Independent Sports News: "It is a strange feeling really playing against your old club, especially one where you were there for around 15 years.

"Liverpool are a big part of my life and career and I had some of the best times of my life at the club.

"So certainly I have happy memories. I have not been so happy playing against them since; I have never scored and not particularly enjoyed it."

Stoke, currently ninth in the table, head into the clash with eighth-placed Liverpool in fine form.

Tony Pulis' men are unbeaten in their last eight matches and Owen is optimistic they can keep the run going.

"I don't see any reason why not," Owen said. "We had a really tough start to the season and we picked up points against some of the big teams.

"Then we went into a period of games where you would look at them on paper and say we had a chance of picking up points, and we have duly done that.

"We are on a nice run of form. Every game is tough in the Premier League, but there is no reason why we can't continue it."

While a maiden top-10 Premier League f inish looks a realistic prospect and a European berth is not beyond the realms of possibility, Pulis has continually insisted he will focus on no other target than reaching 40 points.

Owen shares his manager's sentiments on the matter, adding: "I think our ambitions are probably still the same.

"First and foremost everyone wants to survive in the league, no matter what team you play for, so you want to hit that magic 40 points before you start dreaming about anything else.

"Then once you have done that, you want to finish the season as well as you can and get as high as you can.

"The club were in Europe last year (in the Europa League after reaching the 2011 FA Cup Final) and that was a fantastic achievement.

"We know that is possible, but first and foremost it is about getting to 40 points and then we'll reassess from there."

It remains to be seen whether another of Stoke's former Liverpool players, midfielder Charlie Adam, will be involved on Boxing Day after he missed Saturday's 0-0 draw at Tottenham having been granted compassionate leave following the death of his father.

Sturridge set for Liverpool visit

Reds boss Brendan Rodgers has been tracking the 23-year-old forward since the summer and is keen to bring in the England international as soon as the transfer window opens next month.

It is understood Sturridge will be in Liverpool on Sunday and Monday for further negotiations and a medical with a view to him completing a move in just over a week's time.

Liverpool, who have refused to comment, cannot officially register any new signing until January 2 when the transfer window opens.

The Reds are also still hopeful of securing a deal for Blackpool forward Tom Ince. The 20-year-old left the club in 2011 after turning down the offer of a new contract but Rodgers is keen to bring back the player, who has scored 13 goals in the Championship.

Liverpool tie teenage winger Raheem Sterling down to new 'long-term' deal

The teenager has become a first-team regular since Brendan Rodgers took over in the summer and earned a first England cap against Sweden in November.

"It's every 18-year-old's dream," Sterling, who joined Anfield's academy from QPR in February 2010, told Liverpool's official website. "I'm just really grateful to be at such a big club like this.

"There's a lot more to be done. I haven't begun yet, as the manager has said. Hopefully I can kick on after the New Year and try to do my best for the team and the football club."

Managing director Ian Ayre said: "This is another positive step forward for the football club in securing the long-term future of one of the country's brightest young talents.

"Since the summer, Luis Suarez, Daniel Agger, Martin Skrtel, Jonjo Shelvey and Suso have all signed new long-term contracts and it's a clear indication of our intent to keep the players we believe are crucial to bringing success on th e pitch.

"It also shows the belief the players have in the vision and leadership of Brendan Rodgers and everyone at this football club."

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Rodgers keen to sign up Raheem

The forward, who turned 18 earlier this month, is set to agree what is believed to be a five-year deal before the weekend.

Sterling is the brightest of a crop of youngsters emerging from the academy and Rodgers believes building a good base of young - preferably home-grown - players would stand the club in good stead.

"Hopefully it (Sterling's contract) will be concluded within the next 24 hours," said the Reds boss.

"I have said before that there was never a real issue, it was just a matter of timing and we hope that over the next couple of days that can be completed.

"It is important for me to gain that core of young British talent we can go forward with.

"You look at Raheem, at Jonjo Shelvey at 20 who signed a new deal in the summer, and Joe Allen and Jordan Henderson who are only 22.

"It is very important going forward we can secure those signatures and, of course, we are always looking for the best players.

"But i t is equally important the young players coming through the system get rewarded but also feel this is the best place for them to develop."

Rodgers insisted he never had any fears Sterling's head would be turned by interest from Manchester City and Chelsea who could have offered him more a lucrative deal than he is to get at Anfield.

Liverpool are keen not to be held to ransom on the salary issue and are wary of paying the youngster too much too soon, but it is believed Sterling's new contract will be incentivised and include a number of performance-related increments.

However, just as important, according to Rodgers, was the youngster's well-being and development.

"We were always calm. I speak a lot with Raheem and his representatives and there has never been any issues from their side," he added.

"It was just making sure that we take care in terms of the financial - but also the football - plan for the player.

"This was about a youn g player who has rocketed from playing in the youth teams and the reserves into becoming a full England international.

"A lot has happened in his young life and it was just about making sure that there was that protection for him going forward - both in his financial situation and his football plan.

"I have always been confident that this was going to be the best place for him and thankfully the kid is very focused and devoted to Liverpool.

"His representatives know this is the best place for him. Once it gets concluded, he can start to the next part of his development and hopefully he can keep progressing."

Liverpool are edging closer to bringing former reserve team player Thomas Ince back to the club from Blackpool.

Rodgers refused to comment on speculation linking the 20-year-old, who has scored 13 goals in the npower Championship, with a return.

But he did admit they were looking to bolster the ranks of young players familiar wit h domestic football.

"Our scouting network have been looking high and low for all sorts of talents to come in here," he added.

"At this moment in time there is nothing to speak about.

"If we can get talented young players in - and young British players - that will be fantastic for us.

"Any negotiations take place by the people above me and we'll conclude what we can as early as we can."

Athletic Bilbao have no intention of selling Fernando Llorente in January

The Spain international has been pushing for a move since the summer, with it his desire to take on a new challenge after spending his entire professional career to date with Bilbao.

He feels that he has given loyal service to the club, making over 300 appearances and netting over 100 goals.

A switch to the Premier League has been widely touted, with the likes of Arsenal, Liverpool and Manchester United said to be keen.

Llorente has been restricted to a bit-part role at Bilbao this season after conceding that he wants to move on, but the Primera Liga outfit are reluctant to sell and have no intention of discussing a deal during the winter transfer window.

"This player makes our team more competitive and his future will be decided by the club," said Bilbao president Josu Urrutia.

"At the moment we need to maintain the quality level within our squad, not reduce it.

"Llorente will stay with us until the end of the season."

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Glen Johnson wants to see Liverpool bounce back from Aston Villa defeat

Brendan Rodgers' side have slipped to 12th in the Premier League table and they were put to the sword by a resurgent Villa who are now unbeaten in five league games.

Prior to the defeat at Anfield, the Reds had won their last three games in all competitions, but Johnson says that they must put it behind them and focus on next weekend's clash with Fulham.

"Any game you lose is disappointing. I think we were lacking a bit of tempo. It was difficult and it was just one of those games," Johnson told the Liverpool Echo.

"It was a great opportunity to pick up three more points and we missed out. We have to put this behind us. It's gone now and there's nothing we can do about it.

"We have a lot of games coming up and we have to look to put things right next weekend."

Johnson thought that Liverpool started the game well and that they were unfortunate to go behind, saying: "Early on we had so much of the ball and dominated the game. They went in front completely against the run of play.

"When we were 1-0 down, we still had a big chance as there was plenty of time left in the game. But the second goal before half-time left us with a lot to do.

"You can say we needed to pass the ball that bit quicker, but sometimes it's difficult to play too quick because you have so much room. When you're in loads of room then you are supposed to move into that space.

"When the opposition are so compact around the edge of the box then your little passes have to be perfect. When you have a day like we did when your passing isn't perfect, that makes it very difficult to break them down."

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Cole: Carroll's best years away

Carroll is currently on a season-long loan at Upton Park from Liverpool, who paid 35million for his services in January last year.

The former Newcastle forward struggled for form at Anfield and has scored only once since moving to West Ham.

The 23-year-old was keeping Cole on the bench when fit but is now sidelined with a knee ligament injury.

Cole has replaced Carroll in the side and performed well since with the ex-Chelsea striker believing he has developed into a well-educated front man.

Carroll has nine England caps but Cole reckons he is still learning and will continue to improve in the coming years.

"With Andy he's a brilliant player, I knew he was a brilliant player before he came here," he said.

"He just needs the right break and once he gets going - I know he's only 23 at the moment - but the funny thing about the striker role, or the one we play, is that it takes a long time to learn.

"For Andy to have that skill so young is a real blessing for him because I had to mould myself into that player.

"But he has it naturally, so he just needs to get a few more games. You'll see the best of Andy Carroll when he's 29 or 30, but right now he's still learning his trade."

Cole himself is now 29 and does not think he has finished his footballing education, despite making his first-team debut for Chelsea over 11 years ago.

"You start to learn the game a little bit more, situate yourself in parts of the pitch where you need to be, and impose yourself on certain players that you need to impose yourself on," he said.

"That's what I've learned. I'm still learning. It doesn't happen overnight.

"Andy's going to learn how to impose himself in the proper way.

"I'm not saying I'm better than him or he's better than me but you've still got to learn your trade. He's got great assets. I've got good assets but you've got to know how to use it as well."

C ole could have left West Ham when they were relegated at the end of the 2010/11 season but took a pay-cut to stay at Upton Park and helped the club secure an immediate return to the top flight.

Carroll came into the club with a massive reputation to accompany the high price tag at the start of the current season but Cole believes in his own ability.

He said: "You need someone to push you and obviously Andy Carroll is a fantastic player and I need to show what I could do as well and he's doing the same thing showing what he can do and now I'm pushing him.

"People just think it's one-sided, it's not just one-sided; in training I'm doing what I have to do, he's doing what he has to do and although he might get the first pick, it doesn't matter - in training we're trying to improve ourselves and it does pay off."

Rodgers: Plenty of work to do

Saturday's 3-1 Premier League defeat at home to Aston Villa highlighted the deficiencies in the side - some of which Rodgers could not explain and others which he will try to correct with new signings next month.

Despite talking up his team pre-match, setting second-placed Manchester City as the target to aim for, Rodgers took a more pragmatic view afterwards.

"That was probably as disappointing as we've been here but I couldn't put my finger on it," he said.

"It is a strange thing football. We were talked up all week about us being top-four material but we know within the group we still have a long way to go.

"There is going to be steady progress and there are going to be steps forward, like in the last few weeks, and a step backward like yesterday.

"We looked at the first six months to assess: we know we need some support and hopefully we can get that in.

"We understand the process as well but the most important thing is to learn from it (the defeat).

"The thing we've learned from yesterday is that you can't ever be complacent.

"You have to be at full tilt every week. If we do that we have a great chance of getting the points but if we don't you can get punished.

"The challenge for us now is to have a good week's training and come back next Saturday and hopefully get three points and get on the upward curve again."

Having dominated the opening half-hour, Liverpool fell behind to Christian Benteke's low, powerful drive which beat Jose Reina off the inside of his right post.

When the Liverpool defence was cut open by a Andreas Weimann-Benteke combination - the former converting a clever backheel from the Belgium striker - the Reds' missed opportunities proved even more costly.

The home side appealed for a penalty - what would have been their first of the season - shortly after half-time when Ciaran Clark pulled Daniel Agger to the floor, but referee Neil Swarbrick saw no infringement.

As Liverpool pressed forward they were caught in possession and Benteke sealed victory by skipping through the defence, and Steven Gerrard's late strike was a mere consolation.

Even the return of striker and top-scorer Luis Suarez failed to spark the Reds, with the Uruguay international's only mark on the day being a yellow card for dissent.

Considering he had just served a one-match ban for picking up five cautions, Rodgers was asked whether that was an area he would look to tone down in Suarez.

"He is a passionate lad. I didn't think he deserved to be booked but he had a couple of incidents he was protesting about which went unpunished," the Northern Irishman said.

"I would never take that passion out of the game. That is what makes him the player he is.

"He's picked up some bookings this season but some of those were needless by the referees - like at Sunderland where he was booked for diving and it wasn't a dive."

Villa manager Paul Lambert was impressed with the way his side - lacking big-name stature - extended their unbeaten run to five matches.

"We feel when we are on song we are a good side," he said.

"You always go into every game thinking you can win but I also know Liverpool were in a rich vein of form and playing really well and we knew Suarez was going to come back.

"They will always have the belief we can win games and I get a lot of satisfaction from seeing them perform the way they do and they are getting better and better every game.

"I've always said if you don't give someone an opportunity how do you know?

"The lads have taken to it: Ashley Westwood has been at Crewe and you wouldn't think Matthew Lowton had come from Sheffield United (both in the summer)."

Brendan Rodgers admits Liverpool disappointed during home defeat to Aston Villa

The Reds began the game brightly enough, with opportunities to break the deadlock created but spurned.

Rodgers' side were made to pay for their inability to turn possession into goals when Christian Benteke fired the visitors in front.

A second from Andreas Weimann and another from Benteke put Liverpool out of sight, ensuring a late reply from Steven Gerrard counted for little, and Rodgers was forced to admit at the final whistle that his team had allowed their standards to dip following a recent upturn in fortune.

"I think that will be the growth and the process with the group - it's never linear, it's never straight up," he told Sky Sports on the up and down nature of Liverpool's season.

"It's a disappointing result for us and performance, which I didn't really know where that was coming from because it's out of context with the way we have been performing.

"We had the opportunities to be two or three goals up early on in the game , but were careless with our final ball and didn't end up taking the chances. It's always the danger if you don't take the opportunities, you can get punished.

"Aston Villa came and defended well and when they got the goals, they weren't having to come out and chase the game. It was important for us to try and get the first goal today, to try and get Aston Villa out, but it wasn't to be.

"We didn't quite have the intensity and the quality to our game today. We just need to take that as a bad day at the office and move on."

Pressure

Liverpool have struggled to generate positive results at Anfield in 2012, but Rodgers claims to have taken plenty of positives from the performances he has overseen.

He added: "To be fair, apart from the Arsenal game, we have been good here at home and we have created chances.

"I just felt today that we weren't quite sharp enough with our final pass. I thought today was a lot different to many of our perf ormances this season at home.

"Today we weren't as intense with our pressure without the ball and unfortunately we didn't take the chance to win a home game."

Luis Suarez back for Liverpool; Aston Villa without Darren Bent at Anfield

The Uruguayan striker served a one-match ban against West Ham United and should go straight back into Brendan Rodgers' starting line-up.

Jose Enrique is a major doubt after limping out of the win over West Ham with a hamstring strain and his absence could see Joe Cole handed a first Premier League start of the season.

Aston Villa striker Darren Bent has been ruled out of the trip to Anfield with a hamstring injury and will miss the entire festive programme.

Midfielder Ashley Westwood is available after being cup-tied for the midweek Capital One Cup quarter-final success at Norwich.

Defenders Joe Bennett and Enda Stevens are back in contention after recovering from knee and ankle injuries respectively and returning to training.

Brendan Rodgers says Liverpool striker Luiz Suarez not the only player diving

The Northern Irishman reflected on the problem, as well as other issues currently dogging the Premier League and claimed that, when others do it, it seems to go unnoticed.

Rodgers said: "Luis Suarez was held up as the only one that seemed to be doing it. Whenever many other players were doing it, both British and European, it seemed to go very quiet.

"It's something that is the responsibility of the players. The managers can only guide and give their opinion to the players. I've seen it at all levels - the Premier League, reserve games, youth team games and some kids football.

"You see it now becoming a part of the game but it's certainly something we want to eradicate. It's a difficult one for the referees because they are having to make that judgement straight away."

Commenting on the incident involving a coin being thrown at Rio Ferdinand during Sunday's Manchester derby, Rodgers added: "What happened last week was scandalous - it could have taken out Rio Ferdinand's eye. But to go back to what it was years ago or putting nets up, I don't see that as a way forward.

"You get one or two mindless people at games and the focus has to be on them. How can we punish them so they never get the chance to do it again, not punish the other 40, 50, 60 thousand people? They are there for the passion and love of the sport."

Discussing the UEFA sanctions handed to Serbia, the Reds manager said: "I felt for the England players and staff that were there. It was bitterly disappointing to say the least.

"It shows you the seriousness of how we see it and how we've worked very hard to get where we are today - and there is lots of work still needed to eradicate it. In terms of UEFA, it was disappointing."

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Rodgers: Reds can keep rising

And he now setting his sights on second-placed Manchester City.

After the club's worst start to a campaign for more than a century, the Reds now sit just four points behind fourth-placed Everton, with their record over the last 11 matches bettered only by the top two of Manchester United and City.

But having seen his players criticised early in his Anfield reign, Rodgers now believes they should now not be restricting themselves to thinking purely about securing Champions League qualification.

"They have been hammered left right and centre by numbers of people," said the Northern Irishman. "When you are a club that is the size of Liverpool then that criticism comes.

"It is well documented, which is incredible really, but when you have won the titles and championships you have before that will come your way.

"But I was quite calm because their focus and concentration has been first class, our mentality was very much relaxed as we can only worry about ourselves.

"The cause we created here was to continue to fight.

"We know what will come our way when you don't win games and we are trying to still improve so the feeling was fine.

"You can see in their performances it hasn't affected them and, if anything, we have grown from that and it has been the lever for us to continue to work well.

"Everyone has their opinion on Liverpool and I understand that because of the standards set by this club in the 1970s and 1980s.

"But for a club that has been very poor and disastrous by all accounts from other people we lie four points off top four.

"For me the ambition is to grow higher. We are 11 points off second and that can all turn around very quickly so you need to get consistency - and that is what we have at the minute."

Many of the players criticised - Stewart Downing, Jordan Henderson, Jose Enrique and in particular Joe Cole - were signed by Rodgers' predecessors Kenny Dalglish and Roy Hodgson.

Liverpool's former director of football Damien Comolli, who helped bring most of those players to the club, has said they have all been judged too early.

"I don't know what Damien said and it's none of my business," added the Reds boss, who was pleased to see Cole score in Sunday's 3-2 win at West Ham.

"It was important for Joe to contribute. This season has been very difficult for him because he has been injured for the majority of it.

"The responsibility has always been with the players and if Joe continues to work how he has been when he gets the opportunity he has to take it.

"He works very hard at his game and when the chances come I know in his own mind he wants to take them and be effective for the team.

"That is the challenge for all the players. It is a challenge for us all to improve and we want to keep rising up the table."

Liverpool defender Jose Enrique likely to miss Premier League clash with Aston Villa

The Spaniard was forced off with a hamstring problem after 27 minutes of Sunday's victory over West Ham at Upton Park.

While the injury is not considered serious, the Villa game may come too soon for the 26-year-old to recover.

Enrique told the club's website: "I am OK but I don't know if I'll be ready for the game. It's nothing bad but I don't know if I'll be able to play.

"I've had some treatment and then we will see. I hope I can be fit for the game."

After suffering from a knee injury early in the season that kept him sidelined, the Spanish star fell down the first-team pecking order but has recently been re-integrated into the side in a more advanced midfield role.

Brendan Rodgers' side are only four points behind city rivals Everton, who currently hold the final UEFA Champions League qualification spot, and the packed festive schedule gives them a chance to reduce the gap further.

"We will have many, many games. We have to think we can be there," said Enrique.

"We have beaten good teams this season. The teams at the top have been losing a lot of games so we have a chance.

"We're just four points behind the Champions League places and we have a big chance to be there before January finishes.

"We have to take it step-by-step. We have two games at home (against Villa and Fulham) now and we'll try to win them both.

"Then if we can get some good players in the transfer window, maybe we can do something."

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Mansfield Town beat Lincoln City 2-1 to seal a clash with Liverpool in the FA Cup third round

The second round replay between the non-league pair was decided late on as Louis Briscoe as he smashed home from just inside the box.

The Stags took the lead just 14-minutes in when John Dempster converted from a Chris Clements free-kick.

Lincoln came back into the game when winger Adam Smith neatly finished just before the break - but was the home side who prevailed courtesy of Briscoe's effort.

Mansfield have now set-up a money spinning home clash with Premier League Liverpool in the third round.

Rodgers coy over Cole future

Cole, who scored his first Premier League goal since April 2011 in Sunday's 3-2 win at his old club West Ham, has featured only sporadically for the Reds this season.

The 31-year-old midfielder has been out of action due to injury for bits of the season, but when fit for selection this term he has only started cup matches and reports have suggested he could be set for a move.

On that matter, Rodgers will "see what happens" and insists the way the situation develops from here is very much down to Cole.

"I'm just going along game by game," said Rodgers on the Liverpool Echo website.

"There is every opportunity for every player.

"It's not just about the games. Every player gets a chance every single day to show what they are all about.

"Is his future here? You would have to ask him that.

"The guy is still a Liverpool player and while he's a Liverpool player I'll work as hard as I can with my staff to try to make him the b est we possibly can.

"If he's not going to play as often as he wants then he's no different to any player really. Players are about game time and money.

"But he's not any kind of problem, he's a good guy and we will see what happens over the coming months."

Rodgers not setting CL target

The win moved Liverpool into the top half of the Premier League, and a run of form that has seen the Anfield club lose just once in the league since September 23 means they are just four points off the top four.

Rodgers is keen for his players to continue to develop their understanding of the style of football he has been implementing since taking charge of the club in June, rather than setting end-of-season goals.

When asked if the top four was now a realistic target Rodgers said: "We are just trying to build our momentum. We had a difficult opening fixture list and coupling that with trying to play a certain way of football was always going to be difficult.

"Certainly over the past couple of months we have been progressing and just let's see where we finish.

"This is one of the biggest clubs in world football and everybody knows where it should be but we are making steady progress and climbing the league and it is important for us to do that."

Attorney General makes formal application to quash verdicts of Hillsborough inquests

The Government's top lawyer believes there is a "good" case for setting aside the accidental death verdicts and holding new hearings into the deaths of the 96 Liverpool supporters killed at Sheffield Wednesday's ground in 1989.

The latest move follows a damning report into the tragedy revealed a cover-up which attempted to shift the blame on to the victims.

Mr Grieve is planning to appear in person at the High Court to argue that new evidence means fresh inquests should be held.

"I believe that the case for the High Court to quash the original inquests is a good one," he said.

"My application has now been lodged with the Court. It is my intention to appear to argue the case at the hearing that will take place in the High Court."

Gerrard eager to build on win

Sunday's 3-2 win over West Ham ensured the Reds reduced the gap to fourth place to just four points.

Their sequence of fixtures over the next four weeks sees them face the likes of Aston Villa, Fulham, Stoke, QPR and Sunderland, and Gerrard believes they need to capitalise on the momentum they have started to generate.

"We're building slowly towards where we want to be," Gerrard told the Liverpool Echo after the club's first back-to-back Premier League victories since last December.

"We've got two home games now against Aston Villa and Fulham.

"If we can capitalise and make it 12 points out of 12 then we will find ourselves a lot closer to fourth.

"It's a platform to build on. We just have to focus on Villa now.

"Come the end of December we're really looking to be close to that fourth position.

The result at Upton Park saw Liverpool come back from 2-1 down without suspended top scorer Luis Suarez, scoring more than two goals in the league for only the third time this season.

Strikes from Glen Johnson and Joe Cole, in addition to James Collins' own goal, have added to recent efforts by Daniel Agger and Jose Enrique which have given the hope that the goalscoring burden carried by Suarez can now be spread around the team.

"I think before the game people were doubting us and thinking we would be a bit toothless in the final third without our top striker," added Gerrard.

"But we've gone away from home, scored three goals and got the three points.

"We showed a lot of character and determination to come back like that.

"Every win does a lot for the group and we did it without not only our top scorer but one of the top scorers in the Premier League

"People will always doubt you and question what's going to come from this team.

"A lot of people have said for years we're a one-man team or a two-man team.

"We can't control what people say and t heir opinions, but we know we have got a lot of good players here.

"If we play in the right way and do what the manager asks us then we will win games."

Gerrard also singled out Johnson, Liverpool's best player this season, for praise after his superb strike put them ahead, only for a contentious Mark Noble penalty and Gerrard's own goal to give West Ham the advantage.

"It was a special goal from Glen and he's a player in form," said Gerrard.

"He's been fantastic for us since the start of the season. It's no shock to me. I play for Liverpool and England with him.

"His consistency levels, and not just this season but for a long time now, have been very good.

"He's certainly up there with the best right-backs in the world."

Brendan Rodgers praised Jonjo Shelvey after Liverpool's 3-2 triumph at Upton Park

Glen Johnson fired Liverpool ahead with the best goal of the match in the 11th minute, before a Mark Noble penalty and an own goal by Steven Gerrard allowed the Hammers to reach half-time 2-1 in front.

But with 14 minutes remaining, substitute Joe Cole levelled matters with James Collins netting the second own goal of the contest on 79 to hand the Merseysiders three points.

The visitors even managed to win without their leading striker Luis Suarez who had to sit out a one-game ban.

But Rodgers said of Shelvey: "He was outstanding. But you see there are two different ways in which you can play the number nine role.

"In this country it is always a very traditional target man, a clear number nine. Give credit to Carlton Cole, I know him form my time at Chelsea, he is a real handful and was outstanding today.

"But you see young Jonjo at 20 years of age playing the number nine role in a different way - dropping into midfield and combining w ith the midfield players to make the fourth man, being a threat when he is in and around the box, showing great feet and I thought he was outstanding today the kid.

"It was great credit to him because there was a lot of pressure on him because people have been trying to compare him to Luis Suarez.

"But he is only 20 and has a big future ahead of him."

Liverpool's Stewart Downing disappointed at lack of opportunities

The England international has been restricted to making the majority of his appearances in the Europa League since boss Brendan Rodgers succeeded Kenny Dalglish in the summer.

And Downing has been linked with a return to boyhood club Middlesbrough but, ahead of Liverpool's Sunday Premier League game at West Ham United, he is committed.

"It has been frustrating at times and I have been disappointed this season not to have played more games," said Downing in The Sun.

"But I am just trying to do my best when I play and to get a goal. It is a great club to play for. Hopefully it long continues."

Liverpool will take on West Ham at Upton Park without suspended star striker Luis Suarez but Rodgers is still demanding a win and some consistency.

The manager has not given up hope of a place in the Premier League's top four but he knows his squad must start converting draws into wins.

He said: "If you are going to be succ essful, then you have got to be consistent. Over the course of the season so far we haven't got that wee bit of luck.

"We managed to go eight games unbeaten in the league and the draws we had could very easily have been turned into victories.

"If you're going to challenge at the top end, you always have to be striving for that level of consistency."

West Ham rely on Carlton Cole; Liverpool without suspended Luis Suarez

The former Reds midfielder missed the Hammers' 3-1 win over Chelsea as he was ineligible to appear against his parent club.

Andy Carroll (knee) could be missing for two months but would not have been able to feature against Liverpool due to the terms of his loan, whilst Ricardo Vaz Te (shoulder), Alou Diarra (thigh) and Jack Collison (knee) are all definitely out.

Liverpool striker Luis Suarez is suspended for the trip to Upton Park after accumulating five bookings.

Manager Brendan Rodgers has played midfielder Jonjo Shelvey in a 'false nine' position before and could do so again as a stop-gap with no other senior strikers fit.

Captain Steven Gerrard, left out of the Europa League squad which beat Udinese in Italy because of illness, will be restored at Upton Park as will the rested Daniel Agger and Lucas Leiva.

Henderson hopes to build on goal

The 22-year-old struck midway through the second half against 10-man Udinese when he drove a pass from Suso under the body of goalkeeper Daniele Padelli.

With rivals Young Boys beating Anzhi that strike was the difference between Liverpool going through to the last 32 of the Europa Laegue and getting knocked out.

And after a difficult few months on the fringes of the team Henderson believes only his third goal in 65 appearances since his 16million move from Sunderland is just the tonic he needed.

"It is always nice to get goals and it was a good moment for me to score," he said.

"I have missed a few good chances in games so it was nice to put one away and hopefully I can keep scoring from now on.

"I have always tried to improve my goalscoring. Even when I've been getting good chances of late I've not put them away so I started to think I need to score and I've managed to do that so I'm happy.

"I think if you score goals then it does give you more confidence.

"You have to keep working hard, keep doing the things you have been doing and it will pay off in the end.

"It is always nice, no matter what type of goal or when it is, to score goals personally and for the team.

"I think everyone is delighted with the performance and the result and for me, personally, I am delighted with the goal."

Progression to the last 32 could have been snatched away with the final kick of the game, however, as veteran forward Daniel di Natale fired over the crossbar.

That would have been harsh on a Liverpool side who, despite manager Brendan Rodgers' decision to field weakened teams throughout the competition, have grown over the months.

It could hardly be called a classic European away display as Udinese, who had Giovanni Pasquale sent off for a second bookable offence with 11 minutes to go, had too many chances but it was enough to guarantee involvement after Christmas.

< p>"I think overall we are pleased with the performance," added Henderson.

"We went into the game knowing we had to win to go through and that is what we managed to do and everyone is pleased with the outcome.

"We managed the game well and towards the second half we kept the ball quite well and we are delighted with the win.

"I think we deserved to win the game and go through. They had one or two chances and Di Natale had a good one at the end but fortunately for us it went over the crossbar.

"I think we are going from strength to strength every week and we are improving.

"It is important for Liverpool to be involved in the knockout stages of European competition.

"When February comes (and the competition restarts) we will have improved a hell of a lot and we can kick on from there but our main focus now is Sunday against West Ham.

"Hopefully the win will give everyone confidence going into that game."

Liverpool's pre-ma tch preparations for the Hammers clash were disrupted slightly when they were unexpectedly forced to stay overnight in Italy.

The team were scheduled to fly back to Liverpool on Thursday night but a problem with their plane meant they were unable to take off and they had to spend the night in a hotel.

Brendan Rodgers hails Jordan Henderson after hitting Liverpool's winner

The midfielder fired home his third Liverpool goal on 23 minutes to put the Reds top of Group A and into the last 32.

"He is a great lad and works hard and has come in over the last month and made a good contribution to the team," said Rodgers.

"It was a very good finish and he was unfortunate not to get a second goal as the goalkeeper made a wonderful save.

"He has that quality to arrive in the box and he has a finish in him so I am delighted for him and his hard work is paying off."

Udinese's hopes of an equaliser looked bleak when Giovanni Pasquale was shown a second yellow card with 10 minutes remaining.

However, the hosts almost snatched a draw that would have eliminated Liverpool with the last kick of the game, captain Antonio Di Natale blasting over the bar.

"Hopefully it is a sign we have a little bit of luck going our way because maybe a couple of months back that would have gone in and we would be out of the competi tion," said Rodgers.

"There was no margin for error tonight. I felt we had to win the game because we were in a difficult group against good teams.

"Over the course of all the games, how we have played and progressed through the tournament I think we are deserved winners of the group."

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Pulis rules out Begovic sale

Reports have suggested that Manchester United and Liverpool are interested in the Bosnia international, who as an ever-present for the Potters in their 15 Premier League games this term has conceded only 12 goals and kept seven clean sheets.

Begovic was quoted earlier this week as saying he is happy to stay at Stoke and on Thursday morning Pulis, speaking ahead of Saturday's trip to Aston Villa, stressed his determination to keep hold of all his star men for the rest of the season.

Asked about the speculation linking Begovic with a move, Pulis said: "If a big club comes in for any of our players, then it is very difficult to say 'no, we are not going to do it.'

"You can talk as much as you want, though - one thing I will say is that it is a big year for us this year and we will not be selling any of our better players in the January window, and that is full stop.

"It is a massive year for every club in the Premier League and this football club realises and recognises that.

"You hope you get interest because it shows the player is playing really well.

"But there will be no sales. We will be looking to bring one or two in, but there will be no sales of any of the big players at this football club during the window."

Begovic had been quoted as saying: "As far as I know it's all speculation. It's always nice when the biggest teams in the world are looking at you.

"It's a compliment, but it doesn't mean anything.

"We keep our feet on the ground here and the manager wouldn't let that change.

"I have three-and-a-half years on my contract and I am concentrating on playing and staying in the team and trying to help the team be successful.

"I am happy here so there are no issues with that."

The 25-year-old joined Stoke from Portsmouth in 2010.

Meanwhile, Pulis is hopeful that striker Peter Crouch will be able to return to action against Villa.

Crouch , who missed last weekend's 1-0 victory at West Brom after losing some teeth in a collision with Newcastle's Fabricio Coloccini in the previous match, has had a mouth guard fitted and will be monitored in training ahead of the clash at Villa Park.

"He had a guard fitted yesterday down in London, he will try it today and we will see how he goes," Pulis said.

"We are hoping he will be okay and that that will be enough protection for him to be able to play on Saturday."

Fernando Llorente has confirmed he intends to leave Athletic Bilbao in the summer

Llorente turned down the offer of a new deal at the Primera Liga club over the summer and said he wanted to leave, but Bilbao refused to negotiate with interested sides.

The Spain international, who has previously been linked with Juventus and Arsenal, has found himself relegated to the bench so far this season, starting one league game and scoring a single goal.

After failing to persuade him to stay, Bilbao could chose to sell the 27-year-old in January rather than lose him on a free transfer in the summer, with Juve thought to be planning a winter swoop for the striker.

He said: "I am going to leave on June 30. I want to develop as a player and try something new."

Llorente, who made his senior debut with Bilbao in January 2005 after coming through their youth academy, was the club's top scorer last season with 17 goals in 32 league appearances.

The uncertainty over his future has made him a target of abuse from some sections of Bi lbao's fans and he added: "It isn't about money because the offer the club made was irresistible.

"The media have not helped with the negotiations and it is one of the things that has generated the bad atmosphere around me out on the pitch. This has encouraged me not to renew my contract; this and many other things.

"I took the decision when I went out for the first Europa League game at San Mames (in August).

"Most of what has come out in the press is lies and this has turned people against me. This has meant when I run out on to the pitch people whistle at me. There is a sector of the crowd who do not want me but I feel loved by the majority."

Brendan Rodgers pleased with Jose Enrique's recent performances for Liverpool

The Spaniard, who usually operates at left-back, was told to step up his game in the opening weeks of the season or face the possibility of leaving the club in January.

Enrique has since risen to the challenge and has been impressive in a wide role on the left side of midfield, starting the Reds' last seven Premier League matches.

Rodgers is pleased with how the 26-year-old has responded to the challenge and believes that playing him further upfield was helpful.

"That was always the idea," Rodgers told the Liverpool Echo about playing Enrique in left midfield.

"I felt that he was someone with tremendous ability, but I think its massive credit to him how he has taken on board the chats that we've had and the messages we've given him.

"He has listened and taken it on board, and that's to his enormous credit.

"I think the spell on the left side has made him feel that he can actually get into the box and be a threat in that way. Because when I came here, I wanted my full-backs to do that, to get up there and join in up there. That's vital.

"Jose never really did that at first, to be honest, but now you see he's had that spell on the side. I thought he was sensational [in a 1-0 win against Southampton at home on Saturday].

"He looks more aggressive, and it's fantastic for him. He will be very important in our way of working in the future."

Rodgers: Flops should follow Lucas

The Brazil midfielder seamlessly slotted back into the team for the 1-0 victory over Southampton in his first appearance for three months after a thigh strain.

His performance underlined just how important he is to the side and further highlighted how much he has grown into a key figure after a difficult start to life at Anfield.

Lucas was signed by former boss Rafael Benitez from Gremio for 5million in 2007 but despite enjoying the support of the manager fans quickly turned on the then 20-year-old, criticism which left him distraught at times.

Rodgers believes the likes of Stewart Downing and Jordan Henderson, big-money signings who have failed to impress in their first 16 months, could learn much from the Brazilian.

"I think he is a wonderful example," said the Northern Irishman after Daniel Agger headed in Glen Johnson's cross for his first goal of the season at the end of a dominant first half against the Saints.

"I know it was difficult for him as I have spoken to him at length about when he was sat in tears sometimes in the changing room - it was so difficult for him.

"But what you have to have is that inner belief and the support around you.

"I am sure in those early stages he would have had that and it allowed him to continue to fight and his own personality has seen him win through and now he is very important.

"It will be the same for the other guys. Everyone gets the opportunity and I would like to give the players the hope they can succeed.

"So it might not have been so easy for some players but everyone is important to me and they all have a part to play."

Lucas' reappearance, after what he described as the worst year of his life after only 74 minutes of Barclays Premier League action following knee surgery 12 months ago, gave Liverpool a whole new dynamic.

His anchor role in front of the back four allowed midfield partners Steven Gerrard and Joe A llen, as well as full-backs Glen Johnson and Jose Enrique, to push forward more and it led to one-way traffic in the first half.

In the 14 attempts in the opening 45 minutes Jonjo Shelvey smashed a shot back off the inside of a post while Luis Suarez crashed a free-kick against the crossbar which eventually led to the goal.

Lucas is hoping for a fresh start after dismissing his two Premier League appearances, and two in Europa League qualifiers.

"I didn't count the other comeback because it was so short," said the 25-year-old.

"I was really looking forward to the game and the feeling against Southampton was the same as my first match for Gremio.

"I played more minutes (88) than people were expecting and now it is just a question of games and training sessions, that is the only way I will get to the level I was.

"I think it was really positive, especially as it is a year since my first injury.

"I was really pleased with the per formance. I need to improve a lot but that is a good step I have made.

"Everyone knows it has been a long journey for me to turn around the opinion of people but they really appreciate the work I do for the team and the passion I have for the club.

"It was a great day for me and I hope I have many more."

Allen welcomes back Lucas

The Brazil international made his comeback at the weekend after three months out with a thigh problem, having already been sidelined since last November after knee surgery.

It provided the Reds with defensive surety in the middle of the pitch and allowed their full-backs and more creative midfielders, Allen and Steven Gerrard, to get forward.

The 1-0 victory over Southampton, which included a completely one-sided first half, lifted Liverpool to within seven points of third-placed Chelsea.

And Allen thinks the return of Lucas can help them close the gap further.

"You're always going to miss quality players like Lucas and it's great to have him back in the side," said the Wales international.

"His return, with the steel and quality he brings, is only going to help the team going forward.

"It's a very important role. If you look at the top teams, they all utilise that position and have a quality player there and it is for a reas on, it is vital for the way we want to play.

"With him back playing, I'm sure we'll get the benefits of that in terms of points and our position in the table.

"We've closed the gap (to the top four) a bit and for a club like Liverpool, that has to be our target.

"We have got a run of games now where we want to pick up points and further reduce that deficit."

Allen is also hopeful the freedom playing alongside Lucas brings will allow him to show a different side to his game as on Saturday he was released to attack more having spent most of his debut season at Anfield in the holding role.

"That's more my natural position," he added. "I haven't played there for a while so I found myself trying to get back into the swing of things.

"I had that security of knowing that Lucas was there.

"It gives you the chance to express yourself further up the pitch, and try to get involved in creating and scoring goals."

Lucas relishing crucial month

Having already played all of the Premier League's top seven, Brendan Rodgers' side have a run of six matches of which they will be expected to win the majority.

Despite the Reds' disappointing start to the campaign they are only seven points adrift of third-placed Chelsea as teams above them have all dropped points in recent weeks.

"It shows the Premier League is very tight at the moment," said the Brazil international, who returned for Saturday's victory over Southampton after three months out with a thigh strain - coming just four matches into his comeback from knee surgery a year ago.

"The gap to third place is not too bad. If we had had a few more wins we would be closer but we can't change that.

"We have a lot of games now and if we can get three or four wins in a row I think we will be very close to the top four.

"We just have to think to move on to get more points, especially in the crucial time which is coming.

"If we can turn draws into wins it will be even better but we have to keep believing as there are a lot of positive things at the moment."

The return of Lucas in the midfield holding role gives Liverpool greater strength in a key position and his presence was definitely felt against the Saints.

It allowed Steven Gerrard and Joe Allen to play more advanced roles and despite scoring just once, Lucas is confident the team will be able to score more goals in the future.

"The manager said to us that the decision-making in the final third could be better and as soon as we make the right decisions we will start to score more goals," added the 25-year-old.

"It's a new process with a new manager and a new style of game.

"At the end of May I think we will have more positives than negatives to take.

"My role is especially key for players like Stevie and Joe, Jordan Henderson, Nuri Sahin and Jonjo Shelvey - the offensive players.

"When you have a player who is not really a holding midfielder (Allen performed the role in Lucas' absence) the players feel maybe feel a bit worried to join the attack and leave too much space

"But they know I will be there so this gives them confidence to join the attack, try to score goals and create chances.

"You could see Stevie was very close to scoring (against Southampton), Joe joined the attack and created chances so I am just happy the way I can help.

"If I give that opportunity for them to shine I will be very happy."

The difference Lucas made to the team dynamic did not go unnoticed by Rodgers.

"I thought he was terrific. He gives us great stability when we haven't got the ball, he intercepts, gets the ball back quickly and can read the game," he said.

"Him coming in allows the two other more advanced players to play in that central corridor and run higher up the pitch and get in the box.

"When you get the certain types into the right positions, you can see how the team functions and improves."

Rodgers described the weekend performance as "sensational" and believes the plans he instigated on his arrival in the summer are finally starting to bear fruit.

"It is going to take time but these are the ideas we are trying to put into the team in terms of patience," he added.

"We had 14 shots in the first half. You can't score every time you have the ball but I thought the first half was as good as we have played consistently.

"It was systematic and continual and I think we have shown the ideas for the players to pass and create chances and be free, building the game and trying to tire teams out with the ball.

"It has all taken time but I can see great improvements."

Reds away, Saints host holders

The draw for the third round of the competition was made at Wembley on Sunday by Fabrice Muamba and Ledley King.

Two non-league sides must fight it out for the right to host Liverpool.

Lincoln and Mansfield drew 3-3 at Sincil Bank on Saturday and the replay will carry the bounty of a lucrative home meeting with Brendan Rodgers' men.

Rafael Benitez's Chelsea will begin their defence of the trophy with a tough-looking all-Premier League tie at St Mary's.

The two sides have yet to meet in the league this season and last met in the FA Cup in 1977 when Saints knocked out the Blues in a third-round replay.

Perhaps the most attractive third-round tie, though, sends Manchester United to West Ham.

Sir Alex Ferguson's 11-time winners beat the Hammers 1-0 in the league last week, but the two have enjoyed some memorable cup battles over the years, including when Paolo Di Canio scored the only goal of a surprise 1-0 West Ham win in 2001.< /p>

Premier League champions Manchester City host Gianfranco Zola's Watford, while Arsenal, whose last trophy was the 2005 FA Cup, must head to Swansea, the side who sent them off their own field to a chorus of boos with a 2-0 win on Saturday.

There is a tie for the nostalgics at White Hart Lane where Tottenham have been paired with Coventry, evoking memories of City's famous 3-2 final win over Spurs in 1987.

Everton face would-be giant-killers in the form of Cheltenham or Hereford, who play on Monday.

Elsewhere for the Premier League sides, 2011 finalists Stoke head to Championship leaders Crystal Palace, Newcastle travel to Brighton who beat them last season, and Fulham are at home to Blackpool.

Seven-time winners Aston Villa welcome Ipswich to the midlands, Bournemouth travel to Wigan and Reading go to Crawley, whose director of football is former Royals boss Steve Coppell.

Bottom-of-the-table QPR lock horns with West Brom, Norwich go to Championship strugglers Peterborough and 1973 winners Sunderland are at Bolton.

Hastings United, the lowest-ranked team left, have the lure of a trip to Middlesbrough if they beat Harrogate Town in a replay, while Barrow or Macclesfield will be at home to Cardiff.

The other games put Charlton up against Huddersfield, Barnsley against Burnley, Leicester against Burton and Millwall against Preston.

League One leaders Tranmere go to Derby, Aldershot face Rotherham or Notts County, Sheffield United head to Accrington or Oxford and Nottingham Forest play Oldham.

Hull boss Steve Bruce, a winner with Manchester United, will host Leyton Orient, Blackburn meet Bristol City, Leeds and Birmingham lock horns, Bury or Southend meet Bradford or Brentford, Wolves go to Luton and finally, MK Dons go to Sheffield Wednesday after beating AFC Wimbledon 2-1.

FA Cup third-round draw in full:

Crystal Palace v Stoke, Brighton v Newcastle, Tottenham v C oventry, Wigan v Bournemouth, Fulham v Blackpool, Aston Villa v Ipswich, Charlton v Huddersfield, Barrow or Macclesfield v Cardiff, Barnsley v Burnley, Manchester City v Watford, Swansea v Arsenal, Leicester v Burton Albion, Millwall v Preston, Cheltenham Town or Hereford United v Everton, Derby v Tranmere, Crawley v Reading, Aldershot v Rotherham or Notts County, Middlesbrough v Harrogate Town or Hastings United, Accrington or Oxford United v Sheffield United, Southampton v Chelsea, QPR v West Brom, Peterborough v Norwich, Lincoln City or Mansfield v Liverpool, Bolton v Sunderland, Nottingham Forest v Oldham, West Ham v Manchester United, Hull City v Leyton Orient, Blackburn v Bristol City, Leeds United v Birmingham, Bury or Southend v Bradford or Brentford, Luton v Wolves, Sheffield Wednesday v MK Dons.

Ties to be played over the weekend of 5 and 6 January, 2013.

Premier League: West Ham suffer blow as Andy Carroll is ruled out until February

The Liverpool forward moved to Upton Park in the summer on a season-long deal but suffered the injury in the midweek defeat at Manchester United.

Carroll, who missed several weeks earlier in the campaign with a hamstring problem, was substituted shortly after the hour mark at Old Trafford and further assessment has now identified the 35million man will be ruled out for the remainder of 2012.

West Ham boss Sam Allardyce fears the England international, who only scored his first goal of the season in last weekend's defeat at Tottenham Hotspur, may not return until February.

"It is pretty severe - lateral ligament, I think," Allardyce told Sky Sports ahead of Saturday lunchtime's Premier League kick-off against Chelsea.

"We did not expect it to be quite as severe as it was but it looks like maybe six to eight weeks. So that is a bit of a blow for us and Andy.

"But we must solider on. There is not a lot we can do about these trauma inju ries."

QPR join big guns on agents' fees list

City were the biggest spenders on 10,537,982 - up from 9,663,700 - with Liverpool second having shelled out 8,600,444 - an increase from 7,000,242.99.

But it was Rangers, who brought in a number of high-profile signings over the summer including Julio Cesar, Park Ji sung, Jose Bosingwa and Esteban Granero, whose payments stood out, with their figure having almost trebled from 2,499,214 in 2010/11.

Tottenham (6,595,905) were fourth on the list, followed by Champions League winners Chelsea (6,490,382), Arsenal (5,580,873) and West Ham (4,436,992), while Manchester United's figure dropped to 3,681,580 from 4,457,103.

Promoted Southampton had the lowest figure (646,106), with Swansea - last year's lowest spenders - second-bottom of the list despite their payments having risen from 248,633 to 1,100,845.

The overall amount spent by the 20 top-flight clubs was 77,003,130 (806 transactions), compared to 71,868,749.94 (765 transactions) for the pre vious 12 months.

Payments made by each Premier League club to agents in the period October 1, 2011 to September 30, 2012 (amounts shown include payments made by clubs on behalf of players):

Arsenal 5,580,873

Aston Villa 2,730,539

Chelsea 6,490,382

Everton 3,092,891

Fulham 2,581,208

Liverpool 8,600,444

Manchester City 10,537,982

Manchester United 3,681,580

Newcastle 3,485,503

Norwich 1,248,725

QPR 6,818,688

Reading 2,167,833

Southampton 646,106

Stoke 1,717,266

Sunderland 2,173,762

Swansea 1,100,845

Tottenham 6,595,905

West Brom 1,341,301

West Ham 4,436,992

Wigan 1,974,305

Total: 77,003,130

Payments made by each Premier League club to agents in the period October 1, 2010 to September 30, 2011:

Arsenal 4,648,532.17

Aston Villa 3,163,320

Blackburn 4,227,056.93

Bolton 1,941,896.08

Chelse a 6,457,747.37

Everton 2,931,127.10

Fulham 951,245.50

Liverpool 7,000,242.99

Manchester City 9,663,700

Manchester United 4,457,103

Newcastle 6,380,488

Norwich 710,251.75

QPR 2,499,214

Stoke 2,207,698.11

Sunderland 3,735,384.29

Swansea 248,633

Tottenham 7,571,815.27

West Brom 1,305,576.38

Wigan 659,800

Wolves 1,107,918

Total: 71,868,749.94

Rodgers: Gerrard is phenomenal

The England midfielder has taken the brunt of the criticism for his side's indifferent performances this season, collecting just 16 points from 14 Premier League matches.

Gerrard has scored only once in the league this term, but Rodgers insists he is still a great leader out on the pitch.

"He has carried this club for nearly 13 years, and it's about time there was more than Steven picking up the baton of responsibility for Liverpool," Rodgers said.

"I don't want to focus too much on him, other than that he's been brilliant since I arrived here. His inspiration and leadership within the team has been phenomenal.

"He might not have got the goals he would have wanted this season, but you can see how effective he's been and the quality of his game.

"Against Spurs, his range of passing, his commitment and his drive into the box was superb."

Rodgers also confirmed that Lucas Leiva and Joe Cole could return to the squad for this wee kend's clash with fellow strugglers Southampton at Anfield.

"Joe Cole will come back into contention. He had a scan on an injury but that showed up fine, so he should be available again at the weekend," he added.

"Lucas Leiva will return to the squad, which is great news because he's been working very, very hard and played the reserve game last week. He's been training for a few weeks and looked very good, so we'll look forward to bringing him back in."

Gareth Bale scores at both ends as Liverpool comeback not enough at Tottenham

Gareth Bale was at his flying, unplayable best in the opening quarter-of-an-hour and set up Aaron Lennon's opener before hitting a free-kick for Spurs' second.

Liverpool improved after the break and dominated at White Hart Lane before Bale's own goal, when he was unfortunate to deflect Lennon's goalline clearance, gave them hope.

But Tottenham held on for a victory to follow the weekend win against West Ham United and ensure Andre Villas-Boas' team continue to recover from three previous Premier League defeats.

Brendan Rodgers' Liverpool, meanwhile, gave up their eight-game unbeaten run and it was a familiar story of wasted chances and a need to find goalscoring support for Luis Suarez.

The win, which moves Spurs above Arsenal and Everton into fifth, did not come easily - but it did remind the club's critics that in Bale they have a man capable of winning a match almost single-handedly.

Playing at the same high tempo that he lped them to destroy West Ham, Tottenham flew out of the blocks and stamped their authority on the game from the off on a bitterly cold night in North London.

Bale was key to Tottenham's quick start and the early pressure paid off as they took the lead in style in the seventh minute, with the Welshman collecting the ball on the halfway line and breezing past three players before squaring to Lennon, who tapped home from close range.

Nine minutes later, Bale was the goalscorer as he took a five-yard run up at a free-kick and despatched a powerful drive which may have deflected off the wall, completely bamboozling Reina, who could only stand and watch the ball sail in to his right.

Liverpool pushed for an equaliser after the break but they almost conceded a third when Martin Skrtel's poor clearance set Jermain Defoe free before Clint Dempsey selfishly muscled his team-mate off the ball and shot wide.

Spurs were struggling to get on the ball and their best threat came from set-plays. Bale fizzed another long-range curler just wide in the 68th minute.

But two minutes later, the former Southampton man unwittingly put Liverpool back in the game, as Lennon's goalline clearance from a Steven Gerrard header smacked him in the face to fly into the home net

Liverpool pushed for an equaliser but could not find a vital goal.

Tottenham Hotspur	Team Statistics	Liverpool
2	Goals	1
2	1st Half Goals	0
7	Shots on Target	5
7	Shots off Target	5
2	Blocked Shots	7
1	Corners	12
8	Fouls	18
0	Offsides	1
1	Yellow Cards	2
0	Red Cards	0
78.2	Passing Success	84.4
37	Tackles	18
73	Tackles Success	88.9
35	Possession	65
48.9	Territori al Advantage	51.1
307	Total Passes	556
5	Total Crosses	29
134	Lost Balls	171
48	Recoveries	49
40.4	1st Half Poss.	59.6
30.3	2nd Half Poss.	69.7

Brendan Rodgers claims Liverpool denied two penalties in defeat at Tottenham

The visitors dominated for long periods, despite going 2-0 down early on, and Rodgers was particularly incensed by a clash involving Mousa Dembele and Steven Gerrard.

The Reds boss: "We never got the rub of the green tonight. It was a little embarrassing to be honest.

"Two clear penalties. Steven Gerrard - that was bordering on assault, never mind a tackle. It was frightening how we never got the penalty for that. And if you watch, Luis Suarez gets kicked by William Gallas, also."

Rodgers claimed Clint Dempsey also dived in the build-up to Spurs' second goal, and insisted Liverpool should have come away from White Hart Lane with at least a point.

"I thought we were absolutely magnificent," he said. "I don't think we can come here and play any better than that.

"We'd have been disappointed if we'd drawn the game, but to actually lose it was bitterly disappointing for the players because I thought they were absolutely fantastic.< /p>

"We started reasonably well but found ourselves 2-0 down very quickly and that can be difficult.

"But you could see the spirit and the reaction of the team for the rest of the game. That was a game that we dominated.

"It was just relentless and some of our play was outstanding, but we were just unfortunate we couldn't at least get the draw."

Liverpool coach Mike Marsh says Lucas is on course for comeback

The Brazilian midfielder has not featured since August because of a thigh injury, his second serious injury in a year after he missed a large part of last season with a knee problem.

He stepped up his fitness battle after coming through an hour for the Reds' U21 team against Middlesbrough last Friday.

"Lucas came back and played an hour last week in an U21 fixture so he could be available sooner rather than later," Marsh told the club's website.

"Everyone is looking forward to welcoming him back and getting him on the pitch in a first-team shirt.

"He's not far away at all - if he gets a good week in training while we're away in London, he won't be far away from being included in the next game or two.

"Fortunately we're blessed with a lot of central midfielders so there's no rush to get him back in - when the time is right I'm sure the boss will put him in when he thinks it will benefit Lucas and the team.

"He's a Brazilian in ternational, he moved away from home when he was very young - he is a very mentally strong player. We're looking forward to having him back."

Rodgers eyes Champions League

The Reds have failed to finish in the top four in the last three seasons and that has undoubtedly impacted on the signings successive managers have been able to make.

Nine points currently separate them and fourth-placed Chelsea but Liverpool could strike a significant psychological blow if they beat Tottenham, who are only four points better off than them, at White Hart Lane on Wednesday.

Spurs have shown over the last couple of years what effect the lure of Europe's elite club competition - combined with a healthy transfer budget - can have.

In the summer they signed two of Liverpool's major targets midfielder Gylfi Sigurdsson and forward Clint Dempsey from under the nose of Rodgers as a result of better financial backing.

The Reds boss knows he cannot compete with the money counterpart Andre Villas-Boas has at his disposal and accepts rebuilding for a top-four challenge may take a while.

"Over the course of the summer they invest ed something in the region of 55million net in terms of everything they were putting into the group," said the Reds boss.

"But it is not just in the last window, Tottenham have been building the group steadily and have worked their way up the league to become challenges for those Champions League positions.

"We are trying to arrive in that position and we see what sometimes it takes in order to do that.

"Of course Liverpool want to be in for the top players and top talents and this is a club which will bring those players here.

"But obviously a lot of players want to be in the Champions League so if they want to come in here that is an area we want to get into in the coming years.

"We know we are not too far away and are very close to be arriving in that zone that we want to be in."

Rodgers' squad requires some significant arrivals in January but the manager has stated on several previous occasions he will not have a huge amount to s pend.

But the Northern Irishman is hopeful alternative methods will be equally as successful.

"If you haven't got the investment you have to find other ways of doing it and that is where we are at the moment," he added.

"That is the challenge for us and one we are accepting.

"Globally we are looking at a way of working, can we be different in our way of playing, can we find a bargain somewhere, can we develop young players and bring them through?"

Rodgers dismissed as "irrelevant" the suggestion Tottenham had made a serious approach to him to replace Harry Redknapp in the summer.

He also stressed he could have signed Sigurdsson - who was asking for double the 30,000 weekly wage Liverpool were offering - had they wanted to pursue the deal.

But the Liverpool manager accepted they were priced out of a move for Dempsey after Fulham, unhappy at what they felt had been Liverpool's very public courting of the player, asked for 6milli on when he had been offered to other clubs for 4million and owners Fenway Sports Group refused to sanction the additional spend on a 29-year-old.

"I was very happy in my work at Swansea. Harry did a brilliant job there and for whatever reason they decided it wasn't to be and looked elsewhere," he said.

"Tottenham is a terrific club with a great history but for me this is a really unique football club and I've not regretted a moment.

"Tottenham have chosen a manager, they have decided to go down the route of Andre Villas-Boas and he will look to continue the great work Harry did.

"My only thinking and importance is on Liverpool."

On the two failed summer transfer bids he added: "It (Sigurdsson) was something that if we wanted to do it we could have done it but it wasn't to be and we moved on.

"There was an offer to sign Dempsey - he was obviously a player who had done well during his time at Fulham and I am sure the likes of ourselves and other clubs were interested.

"But the club felt they had done what they could to get the player and he moved on to Tottenham."

Jordan Henderson to prove Liverpool career for life and not just Christmas

The 16million summer 2011 signing from Sunderland was part of a big-money squad overhaul conducted under former boss Kenny Dalglish.

But Henderson only made his first Premier League start of this season under new manager Brendan Rodgers in the weekend draw at Swansea City after being restricted to substitute, Capital One Cup and Europa League appearances.

The 22-year-old has been offered encouragement from Rodgers but knows he still has to prove his credentials at five-time European champions Liverpool.

Henderson said in the Daily Star ahead of Wednesday's game at Tottenham Hotspur: "If you move to a club like Liverpool, you have to try to make it for life and not just for Christmas.

"When I signed for Liverpool, I definitely wanted it to be long-term and I will give it everything I have got.

"It is a lot easier to throw a tantrum and walk away from a big club than fight to make it work, isn't it?

"Other players might treat it different ways but it just gives me a different incentive to push on and go forward.

"I think the manager has seen that I have improved since he came to the club and I need to keep on improving."

Reds don't rely on Luis - Johnson

The Reds drew a blank at Swansea on Sunday as Brendan Rodgers returned to the club he left for Anfield in May.

Rodgers will reflect on a contest his side could have won after having Jose Enrique's strike ruled out for offside, seeing Raheem Sterling hit the bar and Suarez force two sharp saves from Gerhard Tremmel.

But the inability to find a breakthrough adds further weight to the impression that if Suarez does not find the net, neither do Liverpool.

Suarez has scored 10 Premier League goals so far this season; no other Liverpool player has managed more than one.

But Johnson, who excelled at the Liberty Stadium, does not feel the Merseysiders are too dependent on their 22million front man and echoed his manager's belief that Enrique's first-half effort should have stood.

"We are not relying on Suarez at all," Johnson said. "Obviously he is our main striker, but we are not relying on him.

"It's everyone's job to get around hi m and try and score.

"You need a bit of luck in front of goal and on another day we might have had two or three. It's a difficult one because with Jose's goal I thought his feet were in line with the last defender.

"His shoulders were offside but surely the advantage should go with the attacker. I have seen them given. It is frustrating for us but you can see why the linesman has given it if he can see some part of his body in front.

"I never felt that we were in any danger but they dug in and defended well."

Liverpool are now eight games unbeaten in the top flight having recorded four wins and four draws.

Sunday's 0-0 draw leaves them 11th in the table, still a point and two places below Swansea, but Johnson believes the Anfield club now have a solid base from which to climb into the upper reaches of the standings as they prepare to face Tottenham on Wednesday.

"It is a good platform. If you can't win a game you've got to make sure you don't lose it," he said. "We are sitting there and haven't had that much luck. We are not relying on luck but it's a day like this that you could go home with a 1-0 or 2-0. But we will keep going and if we do get that bit of luck it will be okay.

"We will recover from this and turn our attention to Spurs. It is a big game and we have a couple of days to prepare for it and hopefully we will pick up three points."

No Williams worries for Laudrup

Defender Williams criticised Suarez in a section of his book 'My Premier League Diary', accusing the Uruguayan of being a diver and showing contempt toward his fellow professionals.

The timing of the comments has stoked the fires ahead of Sunday's Liberty Stadium contest between the two sides, as Reds manager Brendan Rodgers and midfielder Joe Allen return to their former club for the first time.

But Laudrup does not believe the furore will affect the Wales captain.

He said: "We know all about Luis Suarez - and Ashley Williams certainly seems to know about him.

"The comments are not something that surprised me because nothing surprises me in football.

"There have been lots of comments about Suarez, not only from Swansea but lots of other clubs.

"But there is a referee on the pitch and three other officials and they have to manage the game. The important thing is for our players to keep inside the rules and I am 100% sure they will and we will try to win this game.

"But I have no problem with Ashley Williams playing against Luis Suarez, no problem at all."

Suarez, 25, has been in red-hot form this season, and has scored 13 goals in 18 appearances in all competitions.

Laudrup acknowledges it will be difficult to stop the former Ajax forward, and has warned his side they must look to cut off his supply if he is not to add to his tally.

"It is not about one man. We all agree he is a player to watch because he has scored 70 or 80% of their goals," he said.

"But it's only part of it; you have to look at the people who make the passes and stopping the service.

"He will get chances and he will create some things but the only thing we can do is watch him very carefully and try not to let him out of our sight.

"He is a clever player - you only have to see the equaliser at Chelsea to see that which was very smart.

"He is a goalscorer who has the insti nct about where the ball is going to go, but we know about him."

Laudrup has received an injury boost with midfielder Ki Sung-yueng back from a hamstring injury, while defender Kyle Bartley returns from a thigh injury.

Ki's return could see top scorer Michu moved back up front, with Itay Shechter making way.

Swansea have been on a good recent run, and climbed into the top half of the table with their 2-1 win at Newcastle.

They currently sit above Liverpool in the table, a fact that has not gone unnoticed among the Swansea faithful.

But Laudrup expects Rodgers and Allen to have a good reception at the Liberty.

He said: "I think the reception when we played them at Anfield was good for him and Joe and I think it will be the same here.

"Football is about strong emotions and I think it is up to each fan who comes to the stadium on Sunday to do what he or she wants to.

"He did great here, like Roberto Martinez and Paolo Sous a. We can't say how other people should react but if you ask me what I would do then I would applaud him."