Brendan Rodgers: ‘Alberto Moreno, Lazar Markovic will get their chance’

The 21-year-old Croatian worldwide moved to the San Siro three years ago but enjoyed by far his most effective campaign in 2014/15 and is now the subject of intense interest both in Italy and England.

Inter would face the wrath of their home supporters if they considered selling to AC Milan, and Roberto Mancini would be loathe to lose Kovacic, who made 44 appearances in all competitions last season.

“What is clear is that every player is understanding of exactly where he stands in the squad”.

What is even more admirable is Gomez is a centre-back who has also operated on the right, so being thrown in on the opposite flank ahead of an established left-back speaks volumes not only about his talent but also Moreno’s short-comings.

The 18-year-old, signed from Charlton for £3.5million this summer, was expected to go out on loan but, having done well in pre-season, was handed his Barclays Premier League debut against the hard-running Walters last weekend.

“I spoke to Jonathan Walters after the game and thanked him for giving him that experience! He spoke well of him as well and knew he was a tough opponent to play against”.

“He had a decision this summer and he felt his best opportunity to develop and improve was coming to Liverpool”.

“He’s done that and he’s got into the team”.

Yet speaking at a news conference on Saturday, Liverpool’s manager said: “They know very well with conversations we have had that it is a long season and they will certainly be needed”.

“Both players are very talented players”, Rodgers pointed out.

‘Markovic, Moreno still have futures at Anfield, Ings must be patient’.

“Maybe for the first time in their footballing careers, especially being so young, they find themselves not being a regular”.

“It’s about when the opportunity comes, taking the opportunity and keeping yourself in the team”.

“There is no player here that hasn’t been told that”.

“There is always going to be that speculation but I am sure there will be movement of some of the players that obviously want to play”.