John Hartson: 'Liverpool lacking leaders'

Former Wales international John Hartson believes that Liverpool's recent negative form is partly down to a "lack of leadership" within the squad.

The Reds have won just one of their last eight matches in all competitions, which has resulted in Brendan Rodgers being installed as the favourite with the bookmakers to be next Premier League manager to be sacked.

Reflecting on the team's recent troubles, Hartson has claimed that captain Steven Gerrard aside, "no-one is commanding".

"Other than Steven Gerrard, there are not many leaders in the team. No-one is commanding and there is a lack of leadership," he told BBC Sport.

This afternoon, the Merseysiders will play host to Stoke City at Anfield.