Brendan Rodgers admits to testing period

Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers has admitted that his side are entering a difficult period after his side slipped to a 3-1 defeat to Hull City.

The Reds began a period of seven games over 29 days with defeat at the KC Stadium, and they will be without in-form striker Daniel Sturridge after the England international was ruled out for the best part of two months.

"This little period now will test us," Rodgers told the club's official website.

"We've got players that will come in and it's a great opportunity for them to stake a claim for a place in the team. Hopefully we get back to winning games on Wednesday [against Norwich City]."

The defeat leaves the Reds in third in the Premier League.