Alex Neil: 'Criticism of Brendan Rodgers unfair'

Norwich City manager Alex Neil has insisted that criticism of Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers is unfair, saying that the Northern Irishman has done "fantastically well".

Neil's side travel to Liverpool on Sunday in the Premier League with the Reds on a four-game winless run in all competitions after taking six points from their first two matches.

Despite that poor form, which has also seen the Anfield side score just once in their last three league contests, Neil is adamant that Rodgers deserves praise rather than criticism.

"Brendan Rodgers has proven himself a manager," the 34-year-old told reporters. "He nearly won the league with Liverpool. He has done fantastically well as a manager in his career.

"I don't buy this, 'Liverpool are in crisis'. Liverpool have got good players, they are well managed and they will be a danger to any team in the league."

Rodgers's side conceded a late equaliser as they were held to a 1-1 draw by Bordeaux in their opening Europa League group match on Thursday night.