Liverpool midfielder Javier Mascherano insists the summer interest of Barcelona isn't behind his poor form.

Mascherano admits he is not at the top of his game but insists it is nothing to do with the Spanish giants.

He said: "Everyone knows Barcelona were interested in me but that's in the past now. Liverpool said no and that's the end of it. Some might say I haven't been playing well because Barcelona tried to buy me.

"I agree I haven't been at my best but it's not because of that. I just haven't started the season well."