Rickie Lambert to start for Liverpool against Middlesbrough

Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers has confirmed that Rickie Lambert will make his first start for the club on Tuesday when they host Middlesbrough in the League Cup.

The summer signing from Southampton has made four appearances from the bench this season, though he has failed to find the net on each occasion.

Rodgers told reporters ahead of tomorrow's third-round match at Anfield: "Rickie will start. He is a great technician."

Liverpool are currently in 11th place in the Premier League table after taking six points from their opening five games.