Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers admits he feared losing Luis Suarez this summer.

Rodgers admitted that he was only confident Suarez would be a part of his debut season at Anfield after he signed his deal.

"We just never knew what would happen, (simply) because I didn't know the character and personality (of Suarez) well enough," said Rodgers, who added that Suarez 'will start' against Gomel as Liverpool look to protect their 1-0 first leg lead at Anfield.

"I had to exhaust my efforts to ensure I could present to him the way forward, how exciting it was, and what an integral part he would play.

"You can never be 100 per cent confident until the person signs the paper. So it was a concern (he might leave), but his heart is here and in the end it was an easy decision for him because he loves the club.

"Obviously it has been difficult for him over the last year but this is a new beginning. I can only judge on what I have seen and he has been a breath of fresh air. He loves his football and his best years are still ahead."