Liverpool news and rumour round-up: Sunday’s biggest stories for the Reds…
Sterling to enjoy post-Christmas break from action
Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers has revealed that he is preparing to give Raheem Sterling an extended break from first-team action after his side’s busy Christmas schedule.
Rodgers is keen to avoid ‘burning out’ one of his top stars, and will therefore ensure that Sterling enjoys some much needed time off, after rarely missing out on a place in his team this year.
Meanwhile, former Bayern Munich star Owen Hargreaves has urged Raheem Sterling to reject the overtures of the German giants – claiming the 20-year-old is not ready for such a move.
Liverpool retain interest in Fernando Torres
Liverpool could make a shock move to re-sign Chelsea striker Fernando Torres, who is currently struggling on loan at AC Milan. With the Italian side ready to end the two-year deal early, the Reds could swoop.
The Daily Mail explains that ‘El Nino’ scored 65 goals in 102 games for Liverpool but has never rediscovered that form since his £50m move to Chelsea.
Despite his lack of goals in recent years, Liverpool fans would likely welcome back one of their former heroes to Anfield, especially considering their recent goal scoring issues.
Frank de Boer would consider Liverpool move
Ajax boss Frank de Boer would consider joining Liverpool as their new manager, if the Reds decided to sack Brendan Rodgers. The Dutch legend has impressed during his time in charge, winning consecutive league titles.
The Northern Irishman has come in for criticism after his side’s poor start to the season and the Anfield giants have been linked with a number of possible replacement.
But de Boer has told Spanish newspaper Mundo Deportivo that he would think about interest from Liverpool and wouldn’t close the door on a move.
Gerrard still demanding top four finish
Steven Gerrard has claimed Liverpool are still expecting a top four finish, despite their difficult start to the season, and are also aiming to lift at least one piece of silverware.
Gerrard insists no-one in the dressing room at Liverpool has lost faith in manager Brendan Rodgers, as they go into today’s game with Arsenal refreshed by a 3-1 victory at Bournemouth in the quarter-finals of the Capital One Cup in midweek.
Now Reds captain Gerrard says three points against Arsene Wenger’s side could spark a Kop revival and ease the growing pressure on Rodgers.
Reus exit means bad news for Liverpool
Liverpool are among a handful of teams set to be left disappointed by Marco Reus’ decision to join Real Madrid, with the Sunday Express reporting that a £20m summer switch has already been agreed.
The German attacker has been linked with the Premier League giants since last summer but it now looks like he has agreed to join Carlo Ancelotti’s Los Blancos instead.
Despite Dortmund’s torrid start to the season Reus has remained in good form for the Black and Yellows and if Real do meet his £20m release clause they will seek to hand him a five-year contract. Arsenal, Bayern Munich and Man United were also interested.
SEE ALSO: Liverpool transfer news