Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers insists Raheem Sterling will play against Arsenal. Rodgers confirmed that he will ignore demands to axe the young forward following his controversial interview this week, which left fans on Merseyside outraged.

He said: "He will play, he will definitely play."

And asked how he then expects the England winger to react in Saturday's lunchtime game against Arsene Wenger's men, the Reds boss replied: "Very strongly.

"I think he is a strong character. I know he loves being here, loves the club and I expect him to perform at a high level.

"If it was a different player, I would maybe have something to think about. But with this kid, since he has come in, trained and worked with me, he has been phenomenal. I expect him to go there and perform at a high level for the club."