Liverpool keeping Martin Skrtel

Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers has no plans to sell Martin Skrtel this summer, despite the defender only starting one game in the league since January's defeat to Manchester United.

Various clubs have all expressed an interest in Skrtel, with Arsenal arguably the biggest side to have been linked with his signature.


With Jamie Carragher set to retire at the end of the season, manager Rodgers is keen to keep Skrtel at the club.


“It has been difficult for him and I’ve acknowledged and recognised that,” Rodgers said.


“The great professional he is means his focus has been outstanding and he’s trained very, very hard everyday and has been there when he’s been required.


“We made the change a few months back and I think Jamie Carragher has arguably been one of the best defenders in the league and Daniel Agger has been fresh and played very well.


“It has been unfortunate for Martin but he has been a loyal member of the squad and is still very much part of my plans here.


“He’s happy here, he’s not in any rush to leave but players want to play.  I haven’t had any concerns with Martin at all, his attitude has been first class.


“It is important they know where they stand and he knows where they stand. 


“He is very much a part of what we are trying to do here. 


“We are trying to build up a group with a winning mentality and he’s got a winning mentality.  It’s just unfortunate he lost his place.


“It wasn’t so much through his form, it was just I felt we needed more of an organiser and a leader.”