Monday, February 18, 2013

Rodgers Planning Liverpool Clear-Out

Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers is planning a summer clear-out as he bids to stamp his authority on the Anfield squad.

As many as five first-team regulars are reportedly set to face the axe: Pepe Reina, Martin Skrtel, Jose Enrique, Jordan Henderson and Stewart Downing.

Liverpool will also allow Sebastian Coates to leave and seek a buyer for flop Andy Carroll, according to the Sunday Mirror.

Rodgers watched his side lost 2-0 to Zenit in the Europa League on Thursday which reinforced the need to overhaul his squad.

'An Anfield source told the Sunday Mirror: 'The manager has now imprinted his style of play on the club, but next season will be more important in terms of results.

'There are a lot of talented players at Liverpool, but the club needs people with strong mentalities who can perform under pressure.'

Rodgers, who hopes to keep striker Luis Suarez at the club, will concentrate on strengthening his defence.

Jamie Carragher is retiring and Skrtel would be allowed to return to Zenit for around £12million.

Swansea's Ashley Williams is Rodgers' main target as he hopes to be reunited with the centre back.

But Arsenal is among a host of clubs likely to rival Liverpool for his signature.

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