Brendan Rodgers believes Liverpool are reaping the benefits of increased competition for places within the squad – and praised Daniel Aggers determination to win a place back in the starting XI. The vice-captain has not started since Southampton visited Anfield on September 21 - a game in which he was forced to be substituted due to injury. However, Rodgers insists Agger has been working hard at Melwood in an attempt to force his way back into the team and its that kind of attitude, the manager believes, has given the Reds an extra edge so far this season. Ive reassured him and Daniel is one that understands fully the situation, he told reporters at Melwood. Hes like every player, of course, and he wants to play and hes a top player. Hes training remarkably well. Its obviously been difficult because since he came out of the team with that injury against Southampton, the team has done very well. Its something he understands and hes come in [to training], has a smile on his face and is working exceptionally well. Thats what we need because its going to be the whole squad that allows us to succeed - and hes a player that respects the decision. Hes fighting and waiting for that moment, and when he does get back in hell be in there to fight to keep his place. Liverpools summer transfer activity saw them recruit no fewer than eight new faces, significantly bolstering the options available to Rodgers in the process. The Northern Irishman admits juggling his squad can be tricky, but its a task he relishes. I talk with the players with individuals and as a group, said Rodgers. The biggest thing is identifying - and for them to recognise that youre aware of - how hard theyre working, and how difficult it is. These players, players like Daniel Agger, Joe Allen, Luis Alberto, Raheem [Sterling] and boys like that, theyre working tirelessly. Sometimes were having to organise games behind closed doors, like we did the other day, to keep them up to some sort of match fitness. Its something thats part of my management. Every player here for me is very important. Its also part of being a professional. Football is unique. Everyone talks about football being a business, but I dont know any other business where you have 25 in an office, but you can only pick 11 once or twice a week. There are not many offices like that! Football is unique. The principles can be the same, but in terms of that side of it, its totally different - but thats my job, thats my problem and I manage it the best I possibly I can. Rodgers added: You look at some of the other squads around. Look at the Chelsea team playing the other night [versus Arsenal], that starting XI would arguably be in with a chance to win the league as well. Theyve got a different 11 players that can come in, and thats what brings you that success. You have to have players fighting so that they know when they play, they have to be at their best. Thats something were developing here. Weve got a long way to go to get to that level, but its certainly something thats improving all the time.
Posted on: Thu, 31 Oct 2013 15:39:11 +0000
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