Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers is grateful to fans for buying into his methods.

Reds fans gave Rodgers their backing during the Capital One Cup win at West Bromwich Albion.

Rodgers said: "They've been brilliant for me. The Liverpool supporters are very educated and clever.

"They understand our resources were really stretched and the support they've given, the team more importantly and myself, has been incredible from my first day here.

"I think the biggest thing we've got now at Liverpool is the reality, the real situation we are in.

"This is an iconic club in world football but we are not at that level as a team.

"It is going to take time to build and create an identity again to hopefully get to that level.

"But the fans see we are working hard to do that and, when you fight for your life as a manager and players, then supporters normally respond to that."