Brendan Rodgers has insisted that he never gave any consideration to the prospect of leaving Raheem Sterling out of the Liverpool starting lineup for today's clash away at Arsenal.
The 20-year-old's future at Anfield was plunged into doubt earlier this week when he revealed that he had turned down the club's offer of a new contract.
That revelation has resulted in the England international being linked with a host of clubs, including today's North London opponents.
However, despite all the speculation surrounding his future, Rodgers has revealed that he never planned to drop the winger for the trip to the Emirates Stadium.
"There is no concern with me and Raheem Sterling. Never once has the kid said he wants to leave, I speak with him every day," he told BT Sport.
"As a young player you make mistakes, but I know him very well. He's a very strong character and there's no way I ever thought of leaving him out."
Follow Sports Mole's live text updates of the encounter at the Emirates here.
Liam Apicella
