Brendan Rodgers rules out Martin Skrtel sale

Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers has insisted that Martin Skrtel will not leave Anfield this summer.

Skrtel has been consistently linked with a transfer in recent weeks after losing his starting place to Jamie Carragher in central defence.

Despite the Slovakian international defender starting just three Premier League games in 2013, Rodgers is adamant that Skrtel is not for sale and remains part of his long-term plans.

He told the Liverpool Echo: "It has been difficult for him and I've acknowledged and recognised that. The great professional he is means his focus has been outstanding and he's trained very, very hard every day 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."

The 28-year-old has become a firm fan favourite at Anfield since signing from Zenit St Petersburg in 2008.