Rodgers backs Gerrard

LIVERPOOL. — Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers has defended Steven Gerrard, claiming he remains a “brilliant player”. Gerrard was disappointing in Liverpool’s defeat at West Ham on Saturday and, at 34, his critics say he may finally be on the wane. Rodgers insists Gerrard cannot be blamed for his team’s poor start and says the Reds’ skipper remains their main man. “I have no concerns,” said the Liverpool boss. “He’s a brilliant player for us, really talented. It was a team performance that was not up to scratch against West Ham.— The Mirror