Rodgers dismisses concerns over future of Skrtel and Suarez
Brendan Rodgers rejected claims that defender Martin Skrtel and strikerLuis Suarez will be allowed to leave Liverpool this summer.
The Slovakia international acknowledged the interest that was being shown in him last month after being linked with a move to Premier League champions Manchester City and Real Madrid.
Skrtel is currently playing hardball with the Reds over a new contract and his agent has challenged the club to match his client’s ambitions as City boss Roberto Mancini plots a move for the centre back.
Rodgers insists the 27-year-old remains central to his plans and is adamant he will fight to keep him on Merseyside until the transfer window snaps shut.
“I’ve heard nothing from any other club,” said Rodgers.
“Martin has been fantastic. He seems happy and contented. He has fit into my plans and ideas.
“I will fight as hard as I can to keep the players that I want here and Martin is one of them.”
The new Anfield chief delivered a similar message when discussing the future of Suarez after Serie A winners Juventus were rumoured to be preparing a bid for the Uruguay international.
The 25-year-old is currently with his the national team preparing for the Olympic Games in London with Rodgers revealing he hasn’t spoke to him since taking over from Kenny Dalglish in June but is confident of retaining his services.
“I’m confident Luis is really looking forward to playing for us this season and is really looking forward to this way of football,” he said.
“I have spoken to him and had nothing but positivity from him.
“He is obviously at the Olympics and I wish him well, but I will wish him better when he comes back.
“Unfortunately there is always that rumour, speculation and gossip and until the window closes that will continue.”
