Brendan Rodgers 'embraces' Chelsea challenge

Brendan Rodgers has said that he is 'excited' by the prospect of facing Chelsea just three days after his Liverpool side travelled to the Etihad Stadium to take on Manchester City.

The Reds lost 2-1 to Manuel Pellegrini's expensively-assembled squad on Boxing Day and manager Rodgers has said that the trip to Stamford Bridge will stretch the capabilities of his team.

The Northern Irishman told ITV Sport: "It couldn't be any tougher. We're playing against the two teams who arguably have the two best squads in the league. They can change all 11 players and still have a team that challenges at the top of the table.

"We'll go into the game and do our best, that's what we have done. Of course this period is always difficult, no matter what way you look at it.

"It's not ideal, but it's what happens and it's what makes it exciting to be in the country at this time. We embrace it and we'll look to get a result."

Liverpool are currently one point and one place behind Chelsea in 4th place in the Premier League.