Emiliano Insua has admitted that Liverpool's players cannot afford to become distracted by the ongoing speculation surrounding the future of Javier Mascherano and Xabi Alonso, reports the Liverpool Echo. "Obviously they are two very good and two very important players for us, this is clear to everyone," said the 20-year-old defender.

"There has been a lot of talk but all we know for sure right now is that Javier has already come back to us and that Xabi is due back with us on Sunday.

"The only thing we can do as players is concentrate on our own situation and keep working hard to make sure that we are fit and ready for the first game of the season."